For Umi, life on the lush and colorful islands of Hawaii is about as average as it can be. As commoners, he and his brothers spend their days weeding the taro field, fishing in the sparkling blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, and dreaming of the delicious foods and thrilling games that are reserved only for the chiefs and priests.
But late one night, when everyone is supposed to be asleep, Umi’s longing for adventure gets the best of him. And when he’s caught in a forbidden place by a powerful priest, his life is turned upside down.
This tender tale of love, bravery and redemption is a bright and imaginative retelling of an ancient Hawaiian legend. Featuring beautiful illustrations by the author, Umi: The Hawaiian Boy Who Became a King is a delightful and inspiring story for big-dreaming children around the world.
William Finnegan, author of “Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life”, loved this book as a kid. I had to find it and add to the Sea Library. First published in 1936, written and magnificently illustrated by Robert Lee Eskridge. “From vine to vine the boys slid with lightning speed.”
This edition of Umi by Robert Lee Eskridge is published by Echo Point Books & Media in 2017
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