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Past Events 2011
Author Event with Dr. William C. Bergin and Dexter Keawe'ehu Vredenburg
Richard Smart of the Legendary Parker RanchDecember 23rdOn December 23rd we hosted an event with Dr. William Bergin and Dexter Keawe'ehu Vredenburg, authors of Richard Smart of the Legendary Parker Ranch. This new book explores the life and times of Richard Kaleioku Smart, the erudite owner of one of America's largest privately held ranches. Richard Smart was the last of the Parker family to own and manage Parker Ranch. He was also a ranching industry leader, a wise visionary for his community, a Broadway star, and a humanitarian. All of these distinctions are explored and explained by authors Bergin and Vredenburg, both of whom have close personal and professional ties to Parker Ranch.
Dr. William C. Bergin, born in Laupahoehoe on the Big Island of Hawaii, spent his youth and forty plus–years of his professional career in the livestock industry of his home state. Dr. Bergin joined Parker Ranch on July 1,1970, and served as ranch veterinarian for the next twenty–five years. Today, he remains active in the field of veterinary medicine and community activities. Dexter Keawe'ehu Vredenburg is a senior system engineer specializing in telecommunications and information systems with forty–five years of experience. In addition to earning an MLIS (UH–Manoa) and a MSIS (HPU), he has been publishing short stories since 1967. His family has been with Parker Ranch since 1855 when his great–grandfather taught at Waimea School. His grandfather worked for Parker Ranch, as did all his uncles and aunts.
Our event with Dr. Bergin and Mr. Vredenburg was well attended by Parker Ranch enthusiasts, who really got the two authors talking about their book and about their own experiences with this legendary ranch. It was great to hear all of their stories! Mahalo to the authors, and to everyone who attended!
Author Event with Christine Sprowl Tetak
Legend of the Hula MooseDecember 23rdOn December 23rd we welcomed back local author, and friend of Basically Books, Christine Sprowl Tetak! Christine shared her delightful children's book, Legend of the Hula Moose. This charming story is about two yearling moose separated from their mothers, who meet and begin a search to reunite with their families. While searching, they mingle with a herd of longhorn cattle destined to be gifts from Captain George Vancouver for the Great King Kamehameha of Hawaii Island. The young moose pair are mistaken for a type of cow by Vancouver's inexperienced crew and captured with the rest of the cattle sailing to the island. Upon landing in Hawaii, they escape during a storm to the high mountain forests of the massive volcano Mauna Loa. They enjoy the cool climate on the mountain and the snow on the peak reminds them of their home in Canada. Over the years the moose remain free, share great adventures and raise a family. They are seen on rare occasions by cowboys searching for cattle, but only briefly as the moose prefer to live in solitude. These sightings, rejected by most as fable, spawn the "Legend of the Hula Moose."
Our events with Christine are always fun—her warmth and dedication to children and education always shine through. For this event, she brought along a group of stuffed animal puppet friends, who helped her tell the story of the Hula Moose to a group of attentive keiki (children). As always, the event was enjoyed by people of all ages!
Christine Sprowl Tetak lives in Hawi, on Hula Moose Farm, North Kohala, Hawaii Island. She holds a B.S. in Health Science, a California Teaching Credential from San Jose State University and a Masters in Public Administration from the University of San Francisco. Christine is a retired first grade teacher from Los Gatos California. During her teaching career, she wrote many stories for her students to enthuse and inspire them to be avid readers and writers. One of these stories is her first published book, Legend of the Hula Moose.
Author Event with Frances Kakugawa
Kapoho: Memoir of a Modern PompeiiDecember 18thOn December 18th we held a booksigning event with local author Frances Kakugawa, who stopped by to sign and discuss her new book, Kapoho: Memoir of a Modern Pompeii. This fascinating memoir is a collection of glimpses of her childhood in Kapoho on the Big Island of Hawaii. From the wartime drama of "The Enemy Wore My Face" to the sweet poignancy of "A One–Chopstick Marriage," Kakugawa weaves a coming–of–age memoir of life in a Hawaiian plantation village—now buried beneath a blanket of lava.
Our event with Ms. Kakugawa was attended by many with connections to the Kapoho area, who recognized the lost places brought back to life in Kapoho. The author answered questions and talked story with guests as she signed her books.
Born and raised in Kapoho and now an award–winning author of ten books, Frances H. Kakugawa conducts workshops and lectures throughout the U.S. on family caregiving, teaching, writing and poetry. Her previous releases from Watermark Publishing include Mosaic Moon: Caregiving Through Poetry, Wordsworth the Poet and Wordsworth Dances the Waltz.
Music Event with KohalaDecember 17thOn Saturday, December 17th we hosted a special performance event with local musical trio Kohala! Kohala's music is a relaxing blend of tropical jazz, laid back Kiho'alu style, with original compositions that showcase the ethereal beauty, tranquility, warmth, and spaciousness of the Kohala region of the Big Island.
Grammy Award winner Charles Michael Brotman was trained in classical guitar and recieved his master's degree from University of Hawaii at Manoa. He lives in Waimea and co–founded Palm Records as well as building Lava Tracks recording studio. Charlie Recaido was born and raised in Hawaii and has performed on the mainland and Japan. He is an independent musical engineer and producer and, like Charles, enjoys living in the heart of Paniolo Country. Kohala's newest member is Hilo's own Rupert Tripp Jr. As part of a large family of entertainers and musicians, Rupert learned his Kiho'alu on steel stringed guitars at a very young age.
Kohala's has received several Grammy and Na Hoku Hanohano nominations. They have a wonderful combination of diverse musical influences that create a distinctive style. We thoroughly enjoyed their soft and inspiring sound. The trio played several songs off of their Christmas CD to get everyone in the holiday mood. We are happy to listen to Kohala in any season!
Book Event with Jon Osorio and Mark Panek
The Value of Hawaii: Knowing the Past, Shaping the FutureDecember 10thOn December 10th we were pleased to welcome Jon Osorio and Mark Panek for a public discussion of the topics explored in The Value of Hawaii: Knowing the Past, Shaping the Future, a new book that explores many contemporary issues in Hawaii. Written for a general audience, The Value of Hawaii features a range of expert voices that passionately discuss issues from tourism to agriculture, water rights to education, Hawaiian issues to the economy, homelessness, healthcare, and more. The contributors to The Value of Hawaii outline the origins of our current state, and offer points of departure for a Hawaii–wide debate on our future. Though the contributors have different opinions on particular issues, they share a belief that taking stock of where we are right now, what we need to remember, and what we need to preserve and to change, is the challenge that all of us must face now.
Jonathan Kay Kamakawiwo'ole Osorio, PhD, is Professor of Hawaiian Studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, a historian of the Hawaiian Kingdom, and a practicing musician and composer. He has been an advocate for the restoration of Hawaii's political independence, and writes about the sovereignty movement in Hawaii. Mark Panek is Associate Professor of English at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. He is the author of Gaijin Yokozuna: A Biography of Chad Rowan and, most recently, Big Happiness: The Life and Death of a Modern Hawaiian Warrior, a biography of Percy Kipapa.
At our event, Professors Osorio and Panek engaged in a lively and friendly discussion about various issues facing Hawaii today. Several people from the Hilo community stopped by to join the discussion, and everyone left a little better informed and more thoughtful about the important subjects addressed in The Value of Hawaii. It was great to host such a thoughtful and "smart" event!
Music Event with Kenneth Makuakane
and Dennis & Christy SoaresDecember 2ndOn December 2nd we hosted an Aloha Friday event with three local musicians: Kenneth Makuakane, and duo Dennis and Christy Soares. An appreciative audience gathered at Basically Books to listen to the fun and soothing sounds of these fantastic artists.
Kenneth Makuakane is recognized as a successful innovator in writing, producing and recording Hawaiian music, and has worked with artists such as Na Leo, Hapa, Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom, Raiatea Helm, O'Brian Eselu and Jeff Rasmussen. A prolific songwriter, Kenneth's compositions have been recorded by local artists like the Brothers Cazimero, Na Leo, Kapena, the Pandanus Club, Amy Hanaiali'i Gilliom, Loyal Garner and Gary Haleamau, as well as international artists from Japan. His songs have been performed many times at the annual Merrie Monarch Hula Festival.
Dennis and Christy Soares are a dynamic songwriting and performing team. Together they have released 46 CDs and have been nominated multiple times for the na Hoku Hanaohano Awards as well as Hawaii Music Awards. They were a HMA winner in 2010. Their music is a blend of contemporary, slack key, folk and pop with beautiful vocal harmonies.
Special Event with Leilehua Yuen and Manu Josiah
A Makahiki CarolNovember 26thOn November 26th, right before the 2011 Christmas parade, we hosted a special event with storytellers Leilehua Yuen and Manu Josiah! Leilehua and Manu grew up with stories and the storytelling tradition. Blessed with the privilege of being reared in part by their grandparents, they were exposed to the skills, talents, and culture of an older generation. Children learned by observation, and by listening to stories.
At our event, Manu and Leilehua presented a A Makahiki Carol, a recently recorded cultural program featuring their storytelling and music. This collection of stories and songs features treasures collected through more than a decade of cultural presentations on Hawaii's unique holiday season, the Makahiki. Combining traditional and historical mo'olelo (teaching stories) with traditional chants, hula, their original songs, and other music, Leilehua and Manu captivated a crowd of eager listeners with their joyous voyages through Hawaii's culture and history. We especially enjoyed The Maile Sisters, a set of hula puppets which often accompany Leilehua and Manu in their presentations.
It is always a treat to see one of Manu and Leilehua's performances, and we would be happy to welcome them back any time!
Special Event with Fred Soriano and Charlene Asato
Fred Soriano: Kalai Ki'i Pohaku, Carver of StoneNovember 19thOn November 19th, we hosted an exciting and informative event with local author Charlene Asato, as well as Fred Soriano, the subject of Charlene's book Fred Soriano: Kalai Ki'i Pohaku, Carver of Stone. Charlene has written about Fred Soriano's philosophical approach to his stone carvings and garden landscaping and illustrated this book with her insightful photographs, brush and ink renderings and calligraphy.
At our event, Charlene and Fred gave an insightful presentation about the development of the book and the process of carving stone and landscaping. A small crowd of attentive listeners enjoyed talking story with these two wonderful artists after the presentation.
Charlene is an award winning artist, her work having been included in many juried shows. She avidly pursues book arts, paper arts, photography, calligraphy, and doll arts. Fred is a sociology professor at the University of Hawaii at Hilo and besides teaching, his passion is stone carving and landscaping. He can often be found in his garden, grinding and forming stone. It was a pleasure to share the afternoon with these two artists and learn more about their work!
Black and White Night 2011
Book Launch with Dietrich VarezWith Special Guests Leilehua Yuen and Manu JosiahBlack and White Night in downtown Hilo is always a great community event, but Black and White Night 2011 was a particularly special evening for the Basically Books family. We were celebrating the release of Pele and Hi'iaka, A Tale of Two Sisters by renowned local artist and author Dietrich Varez, and published by our very own parent company, Petroglyph Press! To celebrate this exciting new book, we hosted a party with Dietrich and other guests, honoring the legend of Pele and Hi'iaka.
The fun began with Leilehua Yuen and Manu Josiah, who performed traditional chants and hula celebrating the story of Pele and Hi'iaka. Leilehua and Manu both grew up with stories. Blessed with the privilege of being raised in part by their grandparents, they were exposed to the skills, talents, and culture of an older generation. When they were young, the term "cultural practitioner" was not yet in vogue. What is now known as "cultural practice" was then simply the way one's 'ohana, one's family, did things. Children like Leilehua and Manu learned by observation, and by listening to stories. Now they pass on that tradition. At our event, Leilehua danced hula while Manu played the nose flute, a traditional Hawaiian instrument. It was a wonderful performance!
Our celebration continued with Dietrich Varez himself! Dietrich stopped by to sign copies of Pele and Hi'iaka, A Tale of Two Sisters, and talk story about his retelling of the ancient legend of Pele, goddess of Hawaii's volcanoes, and her youngest sister, Hi'iakaikapoliopele. In this fresh interpretation, the myth is retold and lavishly illustrated with the artist's iconic block prints. The sensitive visual interpretation and simplified text honor the rich mythology passed through Hawaiian oral tradition. The picture–book style offers a fresh and accessible visual tribute to these enduring mythical figures with the turning of each page. As always, it was delightful to welcome Dietrich as a guest to the store.
We had a wonderful Black and White Night 2011, with lots of celebration at Basically Books and in all of downtown Hilo. Who knows what next year will bring?
Special Event with Duncan O'Brian and Kawika AlficheOctober 30th
12:00 noonOn October 30th, we had the pleasure of welcoming author Duncan O'Brian and musician Kawika Alfiche to Basically Books for a special performance event! Both artists were celebrating the release of their latest projects: O'Brian has just released a new children's book entitled Matson the Mouse, and Alfiche was launching his second album, Kale'a.
Matson the Mouse transports young readers back to the time of their grandparents—the early 1900s. This beautifully written and illustrated children's story is about the real–life Matson Line passenger ships that once sailed between San Francisco and Hawaii. Suited for children of all ages, the story follows the adventures of a curious young mouse as he sneaks onto the S.S. Lurline to travel to Honolulu with his best friend, Sprecks the Seagull. This charming story brings to life the color and flavor of the bygone steamship era.
Kawika Alfiche and his friends added a special element of musical entertainment to the event. Originally from Hilo, Bay Area resident Alfiche gave us a sneak peek of his well–reviewed second album, Kale'a. It was a lively and wonderful show!
We hope to welcome both Duncan and Kawika back to the store soon! Thanks to everyone involved for making this a great event!
Author Event with Lynne Farr
Off the Grid and Over the HillOctober 29thOn October 29th, we welcomed back local author Lynne Farr, who has just released her second book, Off the Grid and Over the Hill. This sequel to Off the Grid With–out a Paddle continues the true story of two greenhorns, husband and wife, Lynne and Shingo, who ditched down–town Los Angeles for the great unknown: country life, off the grid, in a mountain rainforest in rural Hawaii. By now, they've spent over five years without the wonders of modern existence: there's no automatic electricity, no city water, and natural gas is not piped in. There's no sewer system, no garbage pickup, no phone line, no street maintenance, no street address, and no postal delivery. Solar panels light a lightbulb, water comes from the sky, heat is from woodstoves, phone calls bounce off a satellite, and all the other missing city services require them to do–it–yourself.
A lively group of friends, readers, and a few people included in the story were on hand to welcome Lynne Farr and talk story about her new book. Lynne entertained us with a spirited reading of excerpts from her book to chuckles, laughs and general enjoyment. Patty Millington, the graphic artist who designed the cover and generally helped Lynne hatch her new book was also there to share the day. Where her first book spoke of their jungle adventures with pigs, this one follows the exploits of their adopted wild chickens. Everyone enjoyed this celebration of a fun book that also shares a message of acceptance and satisfaction with life as it unfolds. We wish Lynne many more fun adventures so that she will add another installment to her Off the Grid series soon!
Author Event with Ben Wong
Let's Go Fishing CookbookJuly 30thOn July 30th, Basically Books hosted a special event with author, chef, and all–around fish expert Ben Wong! Ben stopped by to sign his new Let's Go Fishing Cookbook, a project that stems from his show, the Let's Go Fishing Show for KHON–TV. This book is a heartfelt collection of favorite recipes from family and friends that reflect the tastes of the islands. Featuring a wide variety of fresh and saltwater seafood, Ben showcases many forms of preparation, including steamed, fried, sautéed, grilled, baked, etc. for all tastes. Let's Go Fishing Cookbook includes descriptions, nutritional information and anecdotes on each fish, along with helpful tips about buying seafood and a glossary to ensure that all cooking terms are clear.
Currently, Ben produces and hosts the Let's Go Fishing Show. Each week, LGF takes its audience throughout the islands and beyond for fishing adventures and culinary experiences.
Ben's great "fish tales" and winning personality really made this event special! Thanks to Ben and to everyone who attended.
Special Event with Artist Blaise DominoJuly 27thOn July 27th we were privileged to welcome historical cartographic map artist Blaise Domino! Mr. Domino is keeping the art of historic cartography alive; he is possibly the only person in the world interpreting history by researching and drawing original maps using visual vignettes. His popular maps of Hawaii depict historical personalities, events, and cultural conditions of the past. One of his most popular Hawaii maps, the Antique Style Map of the Sandwich Isles, is one of our best sellers.
Our event with Blaise was great! We welcomed an intimate group of map enthusiasts, who made good use of Blaise's unique knowledge with their questions and conversation. It was great to meet Blaise, the talent behind some of our favorite maps!
Reading and Talk Story with Lono Waiwaiole, Author of Dark ParadiseJuly 16On July 16th, we welcomed local author Lono Waiwaiole to the store to talk story about his latest novel, Dark Paradise. This gritty novel takes two local boys who want to control the same drug trade on the Big Island of Hawaii, throws in some Japanese and Mexican gangsters, and adds the biggest drug bust in the history of the island. Together, it is Dark Paradise, indeed.
A former resident of Kea'au, Lono is now teaching and coaching basketball in Aloha, Oregon. He has also worked as editor of a weekly newspaper, associate editor of a regional magazine, and director of publications and sports information at a small liberal arts college. In 2003, Lono's debut novel, Wiley's Lament, was named a finalist for the Oregon Book Awards for fiction and received an Anthony award for best first novel.
At our event, Lono was welcomed by a group of eager listeners. He answered questions, signed books, and talked with some customers. We look forward to Lono's next novel, so that we can have him back again!
Special Event with KohalaMay 21stOn May 21st, we had the pleasure of welcoming the popular local band Kohala! Grammy award winning Charles Michael Brotman, Charlie Recaido, and Rupert Tripp, Jr. form this acoustic guitar trio. Kohala performed songs of the islands with their unique gentle jazz arrangements. An enthusiastic crowd gathered to listen to the band, and everyone enjoyed their mellow acoustic classics.
Kohala's performance wrapped up our May celebration of local music and the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards. A big Mahalo to everyone who made this month so special!
Special Event with Local Musician John Keawewith Dennis & Christy SoaresMay 19thOn May 19th our celebration of local music and the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards continued with Hoku award winning slack key artist John Keawe and Hilo musicians Dennis and Christy Soares! Dennis and Christy kicked of the performance with some great guitar and beautiful singing. Then, John Keawe delighted us with his classic slack key favorites.
An appreciative audience gathered for both performances, and the combination of Hawaiian slack key guitar and lovely vocal harmonies was enjoyed by all. Dennis, Christy, and John all stayed after the performance to sign CDs and talk story with the audience. It was a special day, and a great celebration of Big Island music!
Local Hilo Musicians Aukahi Perform at Basically BooksMay 14thOn May 14th we continued to celebrate the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards during the month of May with special guests Aukahi! Aukahi is made up of Hilo musicians Iwalani, Fono and Kaniala Masoe. They entertained an enthusiastic audience with their homegrown Hawaiian music, with a taste of Tahiti and Samoa. The performance even included hula by two of Iwalani's children!
A performance with Aukahi was the perfect way to celebrate local music— with fun and family. We had a great time listening to the local tunes, and watching the talented dancers. Thanks to Aukahi, and to everyone who attended!
Author Event with Lowell Angell
Theatres of HawaiiMay 7thOn May 7th, Basically Books had the pleasure of welcoming Lowell Angell, author of Theatres of Hawaii. The Hawaiian Islands enjoy a rich theatrical history dating back to the mid–19th century. The first dedicated theatre opened in 1847 in an adobe building in Honolulu. Fifty years later in 1897, the Opera House across from 'Iolani Palace presented the first moving pictures publicly shown in Hawaii. In all, there have been more than 400 theatres throughout the Islands. Nearly all of them are gone now, except for those precious few saved by dedicated individuals and restored to another life. Theatres of Hawaii celebrates this rich history through more than 200 archival photographs and little–known details of eighty theatres on five islands, including fifteen theatres on the Big Island.
Lowell Angell grew up in Honolulu and has been actively involved with Hawaii's theatres for more than 45 years as a historian and preservationist. His reputation preceded him, and our event was attended by theatre enthusiasts and some prominent members of the local theatre scene. Pictured above is Jackie Pualani Johnson, Performing Arts Department Chair and Professor of Drama at UH Hilo Performing Art Center; Author Lowell Angell; and Basically Books owner Christine Reed.
Special Event with Local Hilo Musician Ben KailiMay 7thBasically Books kicked off our Spring celebration of local music on May 7th with Hilo musician Ben Kaili! This Hoku Award nominated Hilo slack key artist is a repeat guest at Basically Books, and we always enjoy his mellow sound and unique musical talent. Ben stayed around after the performance to talk story and sign copies of his two CDs, Kaowahi and Kanakapila.
Special Event with Mark YamanakaApril 29thMark Yamanaka, one of Hilo's most promising and versatile entertainers, has released his first CD! We wrapped up our week of 2011 Merrie Monarch events with a special performance by this talented young musician. Yamanaka performed songs from his solo debut album Lei Pua Kenikeni. Especially touching was his performance of Kaleoonalani, a song he wrote for his daughter. His musical talent is reflected in his vast vocal range, and it's not hard to see why he is considered one of Hilo's most promising young musicians. Everyone enjoyed this memorable event—once again, we even had some impromptu hula! We hope to welcome Mark Yamanaka back again soon—and we expect big things from him!
Merrie Monarch Poster Signing with Rod CameronApril 29thOn Merrie Monarch Friday, we hosted an event with Rod Cameron, the artist behind this year's fantastic Merrie Monarch poster! As the featured artist for 2010 and 2011, Cameron signed the two posters that he specially designed for the Merrie Monarch Festival. He also spent some time talking story, and charmed guests with tales of his years in the toy making industry. Cameron now lives in Hawaii and focuses on his work in the fine arts. His artwork is on display in galleries throughout Hawaii.
Special Event with Local Musician Cyril PahinuiApril 28thCyril Pahinui is becoming a tradition in Basically Book's Merrie Monarch Week events, and we are always thrilled to welcome him back! Cyril always draws a large crowd, and this time was no exception The Grammy award–winning artist performed his signature soothing slack key (kihoalu) style and welcomed impromptu hula from several visiting dancers. We all enjoyed listening to Cyril perform his classic Hawaiian favorites. As always, we will be happy to welcome him back any time!
Author Event with Tricia AllenApril 28thOn Merrie Monarch Thursday we hosted a fascinating event and discussion with author, artist, and tattoo expert Tricia Allen! Ms. Allen welcomed a large crowd that gathered to watch her in–depth presentation on the subject of Polynesian tattooing. The author and tattooist explored topics such as history, motifs, placement, and techniques in the art of Polynesian tattooing. Her knowledge on the matter was showcased by her extensive research, travel, and networking within the Pacific.
One of Ms. Allen's most popular books is Tattoo Traditions of Hawaii, a fascinating, comprehensive reference book that can be enjoyed by both tattoo enthusiasts and cultural scholars. Tattoo Traditions of Hawaii describes the evolution of Hawaiian tattooing as an art and science, tracing it from its early roots in ancient Polynesia. Allen is also the author of The Polynesian Tattoo Today, a compilation of over 200 detailed images of the beautiful and unique tradition of Polynesian tattooing. It was a privilege to have such a knowledgeable tattoo expert in the store—we all learned a lot about polynesian tattoo traditions!
Author and Artist Event with Janice Crowl and Harinani Orme
Kili and the Singing Tree SnailsApril 27thAs part of this year's Merrie Monarch Week, we had the pleasure of welcoming back author Janice Crowl and artist Harinani Orme! Janice and Harinani have teamed up once again to write and illustrate a delightful new children's book entitled Kili and the Singing Tree Snails. The book takes place at one of the biggest lu'au ever held in Hawaii on July 31, 1847 for Sovereignty Restoration Day. Join Kili as he takes in the sights and sounds at this joyous event, and along the way, discovers the wondrous singing tree snails that are the namesake of the King's historic residence. Kili and the Singing Tree Snails gives keiki a glimpse into the days when the Hawaiian kingdom flourished, and shows the importance of aloha 'aina—caring for the land and perpetuating Hawaii's native culture.
At our event, Janice and Harinani welcomed about 20 children from Connections Public Charter School for a read aloud, followed by a question and answer session from the highly interested group of students. They also signed and illustrated books for eager customers. A great time was had by all!
Janice and Harinani's previous collaborative book, Pulelehua and Mamaki, is the winner of the Ka Palapala Po'okela Award for Excellence in Children's Literature. We always expect great things when these two get together, and we look forward to their next collaboration!
Talk Story Event with Kupuna Roy WilsonApril 27thOn Merrie Monarch Wednesday Basically Books hosted a very special event all about the "old days" in Hawaii with Kupuna and local historian Uncle Roy Wilson! Mr. Wilson gave an endearing account of his life working on the railway systems here on the Big Island. A true Kupuna, Uncle Roy took us back in time to a place where the simplicity of life seems like a far cry from the hustle and bustle and information overload we experience today. Listening to him tell his stories is truly a pleasure, and we were all happy to meet this living legend.
Special Event with the KuahiwisApril 26thMerrie Monarch week continued at Basically Books on Tuesday afternoon with some real Hawaiian spirit from musical group the Kuahiwis! The Kuahiwis put on a great performance with their nostalgic yet contemporary take on hawaiian music. Seamlessly blending modern hula music with local–style party tunes, their style truly encompasses many generations. Some visiting hula dancers even accompanied them on a few songs! Between numbers, the Kuahiwis amused the audience with stories of their visits to Japan to play Hawaiian music. It was a pleasure to host this talented and entertaining group of musicians!
The Kuahiwis CD, Hawaiian Music, is available at Basically Books.
Special Event with Stan Kaina and Leo Nahenahe 'O Pohai KealohaApril 25thLocal musician Stan Kaina and the ladies of Leo Nahenahe 'O Pohai Kealoha were back again this year for Merrie Monarch, bringing us a delightful selection of music and hula. Stan never disappoints! Once again he filled the store with his fun hapa–haole hula songs, while his lovely hula dancer Piilani brought the songs to life. A few enthusiastic fans even joined in the fun by dancing along for a few songs! Stan played favorite Hawaiian songs that pluck at the heart strings, make us laugh, and take us back in time, celebrating the tradition of song and dance that is the Merrie Monarch Festival. We hope to make his performances a Basically books Merrie Monarch tradition!
Local Musician Napua Makua Live at Basically BooksApril 25thOn Merrie Monarch Monday, musician Napua Makua dropped by Basically Books to share a few songs! Napua delighted guests with her distinct falsetto voice, performing songs from her newest album, Mohalu, as well as her previous album, Piihana. Napua is also a Kumu Hula for Halau Na Lei Kaumaka O Uka, and she brought along a dancer from her halau to share in the show! It was a lovely performance all around.
Napua Makua says of her new CD, "Mohalu—to be at ease, comfortable, at liberty. As our lives contain many layers, the same is so for Mohalu. Mohalu is also the 12th night of the lunar cycle, an eve where planting flowers would be ideal, as these blooms would grow as full and as perfect as the moon on this night." Even if you missed the show, you can still stop by Basically Books and listen to Napua Makua's excellent new album. We hope to welcome her back soon!
Author Event with Mark Panek
Big Happiness: The Life and Death of a Modern Hawaiian WarriorApril 23thOn April 23rd, we welcomed back to the store local author and professor Mark Panek! Mark was promoting his new book Big Happiness: The Life and Death of a Modern Hawaiian Warrior. This important book tells the poignant story of sumo wrestler Percy Kipapa. Along the way, it explores the world of professional sumo, Hawaii's ice epidemic, and the challenges and consequences of living in modern times.
At our event, Panek gave an emotional and heartfelt talk on this book that he wrote for Percy Kipapa, his friend. He summarized the major topics of Big Happiness, from Percy's experiences rising to the top of the Sumo ranks in Japan to his tragic death and the implications it holds for Hawaii's ice epidemic.
Mark Panek is a professor of English at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. He is also the author of Gaijin Yokozuna: A Biography of Chad Rowan. We look forward to his next book, whatever it may be!
Special Event with Angel M. Hiatt and Scott Bosshardt
Aloha KikiMarch 5thOn March 5th, we hosted a fun, keiki–friendly event with Angel M. Hiatt and Scott Bosshardt, author and illustrator of Aloha KiKi! After arriving in Hawaii in 2007, Ms. Hiatt adopted her first kitty, Aloha KiKi, from the Hawaii Island Humane Society. After watching, photographing and videotaping Aloha KiKi and seeing her funny adventures, Angel decided to write a children's book about her. The result was Aloha KiKi, a charming story about a cat's typical day and adventures in her magical secret garden on the Island of Hawaii. Aloha KiKi captures the beauty of Hawaii's wonderful creatures, exotic plants, beautiful flowers, ponds with goldfish, and luscious landscapes. With full color pictures on every page, Aloha Kiki is a must see and read for children and parents!
Our event was attended by a lively group of the young and young–at–heart. Angel read aloud from Aloha KiKi, and she and Scott stuck around to answer questions and talk story with fans. It was a delightful afternoon for everyone who attended!
To learn more about Angel M. Hiatt and her work, please visit her online at www.angelsbookcircle.com.
Author Event with Michael Haas, Rick Castberg, Robert Fox, and Nina Buchanan
Barack Obama, The Aloha Zen PresidentFebruary 23rdOn February 23rd we had the honor of celebrating the release of Barack Obama, The Aloha Zen President: How a Son of the 50th State May Revitalize America Based on 12 Multicultural Principles. We were joined by Michael Haas, editor of the collection, and several contributing local authors! This exciting new book portrays President Barack Obama as a true child of Hawaii and explains why he believes that America can achieve greatness by learning from the multicultural customs of the 50th state. President Obama has said, "There is no doubt that the residue of Hawaii will always stay with me, that it is part of my core, and that what's best in me, and what's best in my message, is consistent with the tradition of Hawaii." Obama's aspiration to transform the United States using Hawaii as his model has been a conspicuous theme in his books and speeches over the years. Barack Obama, The Aloha Zen President examines Obama's decisions as an adult and as president and shows how they are directly linked to the culture of Hawaii and Obama's multicultural upbringing.
A very lively discussion accompanied our Hilo book launch of Barack Obama, The Aloha Zen President. Editor and author of several chapters, Michael Haas came prepared with several large charts—and also brought almond cookies! He discussed how President Obama illustrates 12 Multicultural Principles embodied in Hawaii's Multicultural Ethos. Nina Buchanan and Robert Fox shared their chapter on education in Hawaii and how changes occurring at the time Obama was growing up in Hawaii may have influenced his perceptions. Rick Castberg discussed the justice system in Hawaii. Castberg also made the astute comment that it will be many years from now that President Obama's contributions and influence will be known and analyzed.
Although the book uses Barack Obama as a framework, it is also a thorough study on the many aspects of Hawaii that make its culture so unique. We all enjoyed hearing from these talented and well–informed authors—and it was a real treat to have four authors for one event!
Author Event with S.P. Grogan
Captain Cooked: Hawaiian Mystery of Romance, Revenge... and Recipes!February 19thOn February 19th, we hosted a great author event with S.P. Grogan, creator of the Island thriller Captain Cooked! This page–turner tells the story of Videographer Madison Merlot Dayne, who just wanted a nice Hawaiian vacation. But this was not to be! From the moment Madison arrives on the Big Island, she is caught up in trying to discover who may have poisoned a revered Hawaiian singing star. Her trip includes riots, suspicious accidents, earthquakes, flowing lava, ancient Hawaiian war weapons a real "cliff hanger." Will Madison get off the island alive? Captain Cooked is non–stop mystery and excitement— and there is even a real treasure hunt embedded in the pages! A Hawaiian war club is currently hidden somewhere on the Big Island.
If it is
found, the finder will receive $5,000 cash! This contest follows in the tradition of Grogan's previous mystery novel,
a best seller entitled Vegas Die.Author Steven P. Grogan and his wife, Pamela, made the cross–island dash in record time, arriving at Basically Books just in time after their successful event at Kona Bay Books. Steven shared stories about his research for Captain Cooked—which included many name–drops of island eateries and other businesses well know to locals. The inclusion of the treasure hunt in Captain Cooked, with its geo–caching coordinates, sent us to our excellent selection of topographical maps to try to find out where some of the sites are located. We quickly became convinced that a GPS unit is required for those adventurous enough to follow the clues in search of the hidden Hawaiian War Club. Grogan entertained us with anecdotes about his previous book, Vegas Die, which also included a murder mystery with a geo–cached prize hidden for adventurous readers to find. The conversation was lively and humorous—Steven is a great personality, and very enthusiastic about his work!
Author Event with Virgil Mayor Apostol
Way of the Ancient HealerFebruary 18thOn February 18th, we welcomed healing arts therapist Virgil Mayor Apostol, who signed and discussed his new book, Way of the Ancient Healer. This fascinating volume provides an overview of the rich tradition of Filipino healing practices, including their origins, world influences, and roles in daily life. Enhanced with over 200 photographs and illustrations, the book combines years of historical research with detailed descriptions of the spiritual belief system that forms the foundation of the healing practices.
Virgil's appearance at Basically Books followed a very well–attended workshop the previous weekend and a lecture at the University of Hawaii at Hilo, so word of this healing practitioner had already gotten around town! Our event with Mr. Apostol was very well attended, and included several prominent members of the healing community: David Leonard, an acupuncturist, Chinese herbal practitioner and the author of Medicine at Your Feet; Dane Silva, Chiropractor and Hawaiian cultural practitioner; UH Hilo Minority Access director, Ginger Hamilton; and even a workshop attendee from Wisconsin, happy to be enjoying the balmy Hilo weather. The group enjoyed a lively discussion that addressed far ranging questions from many of the attendees.
Virgil Mayor Apostol is a healing arts therapist and certified Holistic Health practitioner, and is the coauthor of Healing Hands of Hilot: Filipino Therapeutic Massage. He was encouraged by Deepak Chopra to teach Filipino healing worldwide through workshops. He lives in Highland, CA. For more information about Virgil and his work, visit him online at www.rumsua.org.
Author Event with Kathleen Porter
Sad Dog, Happy Dog: How Poor Posture Affects Your Child's Health and What You Can Do About ItJanuary 8thOn January 8th we had the pleasure of welcoming to the store local author and return guest Kathleen Porter! Ms. Porter's second book on skeletal health, Sad Dog, Happy Dog: How Poor Posture Affects Your Child's Health and What You Can Do About It focuses on the worsening skeletal collapse facing each successive "techno" generation. Many hours spent in front of TV and computer screens, as well as in school desk chairs, disrupt a child's ability to rely on naturally aligned bones for relaxed upright support. Structural collapse stands alongside obesity as a serious threat to the long–term health of children growing up today. Porter, a movement educator and researcher, provides a detailed road map for parents, teachers, health professionals, and fitness trainers to guide children back to a natural, healthy posture.
It is always a pleasure to have Kathleen in the store, and this event was no exception! In addition to signing books and answering questions, Kathleen gave a very informative and interesting presentation on skeletal health, with many tips immediately applicable to both children and adults. All who attended enjoyed the presentation, and there were many questions from the audience!
Kathleen Porter has traveled the world researching natural skeletal alignment and is the author of Ageless Spine, Lasting Health: The Open Secret to Pain–free Living and Comfortable Aging. A longtime student of meditation, she taught yoga for many years and has been teaching principles of natural alignment in Hilo, Hawaii; Portland, Oregon and Rhinebeck, New York.
Author Event with Judy Rohrer
Haoles in Hawai'iJanuary 8thOn January 8th, we hosted an event with author and academic Judy Rohrer! Ms. Rohrer's new book, Haoles in Hawai'i, is the first volume in a new series on race and ethnicity in Hawaii. It strives to make sense of haole (white person/whiteness in Hawai'i) and "the politics of haole" in current debates about race. Recognizing it as a form of American whiteness specific to Hawai'i, the author argues that haole was forged and reforged over two centuries of colonization and needs to be understood in that context. Haole reminds us that race is about more than skin color as it identifies a certain amalgamation of attitude and behavior that is at odds with Hawaiian and local values and social norms.
By situating haole historically and politically, the author asks readers
to think about ongoing processes of colonization and possibilities for reformulating the meaning of haole.Our event with Judy attracted quite a crowd! She signed books and gave a short talk, as well as answering questions. We got many positive comments afterwards from both the author and those who attended the event—in both her book and her discussion, Judy deals masterfully with what is sometimes a sensitive subject in the Islands. Her talk and the audience questions made for a fascinating discussion!
Judy Rohrer grew up on Kaua'i and O'ahu and received her PhD in Political Science in 2005 at the University of Hawai'i. She is currently a Scholar in Residence at the University of California Berkeley. She has written previously about Hawai'i in Ethnic and Racial Studies, American Quarterly, borderlands and The Contemporary Pacific. Her book, Haoles in Hawai'i, was recently released from the University of Hawai'i Press.
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