Basically Books Past Events 2010 Page

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Past Events 2010

Author Event with Christine Taylor Sprowl Tetak
Special Event with Author Patsy Y. Iwasaki and Illustrator Avery Berido
Author Event with Makela M. Bruno–Kidani
Author Event with Senator Fred Rohlfing
Cyril Pahinui Live at Basically Books
Author Event with Gaellen Quinn
Author Event with Kerry Germain
Special Event with Harmony On Tap
Author Event with Linda Ching
Author Event with Aunty Audrey Wilson
Black & White Night 2010 with Special Guests Caren Loebel–Fried and Kaliko Beamer–Trapp, Plus The Hilo Crybabies
Author Event with John P. Lockwood and Richard W. Hazlett
Author and Artist Event with Victor C. Pellegrino and Linda Rowell Stevens
Author Event with Keahi Felix
Special Keiki Event with Author Christine Taylor Sprowl Tetak
First Friday Event with Author Odette Rickert
Author Event with Clear Englebert
Konane Demonstration by The Konane Brothers
Live Performance By Local Musical Legend Cyril Pahinui
2010 Merrie Monarch Poster Signing with Artist Rod Cameron
Hula Performance with Stan Kaina and Leo Nahenahe 'O Pohai Kealoha
Lomilomi Massage and Hawaiian Plants Lecture and Demo with Suzanne Kamaluhia Woolley and Dane Silva
Local Musician Ben Kaili Live at Basically Books
African American History Event with Dr. Ayin Adams, Dr. Kathryn Waddell Takara, and Special Guest Helene Hale

Author Event with Christine Taylor Sprowl Tetak
Legend of the Hula Moose

On December 22nd we welcomed back to the store our friend Christine Taylor Sprowl Tetak, author of Legend of the Hula Moose! This charming keiki book tells the story of two Canadian yearling moose separated from their mothers. They 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 to the high mountain forests of Mauna Loa. 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. These sightings, rejected by most as fable, spawn the "Legend of the Hula Moose".

As always, Christine was a lovely guest. She is a first grade teacher at Guadalupe Elementary School in San Jose, California, and she brings the same spirit of energy and cheerfulness to her author events that makes her a great teacher of young students. We will be happy to welcome her back any time, and look forward to any new books from this creative classy lady!
Special Event with Author Patsy Y. Iwasaki and Illustrator Avery Berido
Hamakua Hero: A True Plantation Story

On December 18th, we hosted an event with Patsy Y. Iwasaki and Avery Berido, the author and illustrator of Hamakua Hero: A True Plantation Story. Written and illustrated in manga style, this graphic novel tells the true story of Katsu Goto, a Japanese man who journeyed to Hawaii during the late 1800's seeking a better life as a plantation worker. Hamakua Hero illustrates the racial and cultural problems Japanese immigrants faced on the plantations. It is a powerfully poignant biography of Katsu Goto's life and the injustices he and his countrymen faced in their years of work on a Honoka'a plantation, back in a time when sugar was king along the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island. An intriguing, but little–known piece of Hawaii's past, the story of Katsu Goto's life, experiences, and tragic death sheds light on how the seeds were sown for the great labor movements that followed, during which plantation workers of all ethnicities united to seek justice, equality, improved working conditions, and better wages.

We had a great event with Patsy and Avery! Many friends and fans stopped in to meet the author and illustrator and talk story. It was fascinating to hear about the process of researching, writing, and drawing the story of Katsu Goto. We would love to welcome these two back to the store any time!
Author Event with Makela M. Bruno–Kidani
Aia He Kaheka: There's A Tide Pool

On December 18th, we hosted a family event with author Makela M. Bruno–Kidani! Makela's popular children's book, Aia He Kaheka: There's A Tide Pool, is a counting book for young children and a fun way to learn and identify some of the i'a (Hawaiian sea creatures) that live in our ocean. Keiki can count along with the i'a as they swim in and out of a tide pool. The story follows many different creatures like the puhi, manini, and po'opa'a as they wash in and out with the waves on the shore of Puako, Hawaii. Aia He Kaheka: There's A Tide Pool is available in both bilingual and all–Hawaiian language versions.

Our event with Makela was fun for all ages! She read Aia He Kaheka aloud to a crowd of attentive keiki, and answered questions from both kids and adults. Everyone enjoyed her reading, as well as her bright and friendly personality!

Makela Bruno–Kidani is a licensed clinical Marriage and Family Therapist with degrees in Hawaiian Language and Counseling Psychology. She currently has a private practice in Waimea and teaches Hawaiian studies for UH Hilo. She also writes a Hawaiian language column for Big Island Weekly, and is the founder, former producer and host of the Hawaiian Language radio show, Alana I Kai Hikina. Makela was born in Kapa'au, Kohala and raised in the North Kohala and Waimea regions.
Author Event with Senator Fred Rohlfing
Island Son: The Life and Times of Hawaii's Republican Reformer

On December 11th, we hosted a very special author event with Senator Fred Rohlfing! Senator Rohlfing was at Basically Books to sign his new book, Island Son: The Life and Times of Hawaii's Republican Reformer. This "memoir and commentary" traces the multi–faceted political, legal, and naval career of the Senator. In it, Rohlfing discusses the many stages of his career: his athletic days at Yale; his 20 years of service in the Hawaii State Legislature; his Naval Intelligence service in Vietnam; stints as Attorney General in American Samoa, as "ambassador" to the South Pacific Commission in New Caledonia, and service to the County of Maui in numerous roles. Island Son has been called "an energetic, engaging memoir" that is an "entertaining and informative read for every student of Hawaii politics and Pacific Island Affairs."

A crowd of old friends, colleagues and supporters stopped by to visit with Senator Rohlfing and talk about his book. We were honored to have the Senator as a guest in our store, and enjoyed listening to his stories about Hawaii politics throughout the years.
Slack Key Guitar Master Cyril Pahinui Live at Basically Books

On November 30th, we wrapped up our month of 25th Anniversary celebration events with a very special guest: master slack key guitar artist Cyril Pahinui treated us and our customers to a live in–store performance! A world renowned slack key artist, and winner of several Na Hoku Hanohano Awards, Cyril has been a major part of the Hawaiian music scene for over 40 years.

As always, it was a pleasure to listen to Cyril. Our little store was packed with guests enjoying Cyril's island classics played in his own signature style. In between songs, he answered questions about his tunings, shared memories of how he learned by listening to his dad, Gabby, play with all the greats like Atta Isaacs, Sonny Chillingsworth, and others. Everyone had a great time, and we hope to welcome Cyril back soon!
Author Event with Gaellen Quinn
The Last Aloha

On November 27th Basically Books welcomed back local author Gaellen Quinn! Gaellen was here to sign and discuss her compelling novel, The Last Aloha. This book tells the story of Laura Jennings, who in 1886 boards a steamship bound for the exotic islands of Hawaii to live with the missionary relatives she's never met. On arriving in Honolulu, she is surprised to find that, far from being savages, the Hawaiians have developed a charming and prosperous kingdom—and Laura's own family is among the wealthy elite plotting to overthrow the monarchy. To avoid her conniving uncle's control, Laura goes to work for the royal family. She is swept up in a web of intrigue and turmoil as the Missionary Party intensifies its scheme to topple the throne, and Hawaii's last queen, Lili'uokalani, struggles heroically to save the kingdom.

Ms. Quinn holds a Masters Degree in International and Community Development. Her writing reflects her passion for diverse peoples, as well as major world themes that affect our personal, social and spiritual lives. As always, we enjoyed Gaellen's visit, as did the many fans who stopped by the store to talk story!
Author Event with Kerry Germain
Kimo's Surfing Lesson

On November 27th, Basically Books welcomed author Kerry Germain, who stopped by to sign her latest children's book, Kimo's Surfing Lesson. This read–aloud picture book continues the story of Kimo, the boy who wished to surf with all his heart. In this tale, it's Friday after school and Kimo has one thing on his mind—surfing. Too bad he forgot about his cousin Katie's visit from the Mainland. Will this girly–girl ruin his afternoon plans or will he make a new discovery? In this third installment of the series, kids will learn that you can't always judge a book by its cover!

We really enjoyed having Kerry visit the store. She is a pleasant and engaging person, and it was great to talk with her about her lovely books, and the process of writing and publishing them. If you missed this event, be sure to stop by Basically Books soon—Kerry left a few signed copies of Kimo's Surfing Lesson with us at the store, but they're going fast! To learn more about Kerry and her work, visit her online at www.islandparadisepublishing.com
Special Performance Event with Harmony On Tap

On November 20th, Basically Books hosted a fantastic performance event with Harmony On Tap (HOT)! HOT is cool ladies making hot music! Everyone in the store enjoyed their renditions of classic jazz, pop, barbershop, folk, and Broadway favorites. We also had a great time just talking story with these lovely and talented local ladies—we felt fortunate to share in the "hotitude!"
Author Event with Linda Ching
Ao: Ten Years of Light

On November 14th Basically Books welcomed award winning Hawaii photographer Linda Ching! Ching stopped by to sign her new book, Ao: Ten Years of Light. "Ao" is the Hawaiian word for light or enlightenment. The Kumulipo, the Hawaiian Creation Chant, says Ao was the time when daylight emerged from the darkness. The 80 folio images in this collection showcase a decade of bringing the legends and myths of the islands alive through the fine art of photography, which is sometimes defined as "painting with light." These images all illustrate Hawaiian mo'olelo, the stories of old. Ching strings the stories together like flowers on a fragrant lei, giving us a glimpse into the beauty of Hawaiian thoughts and values as well as the artist's personal thoughts and feelings behind creating photographic images.

Linda Ching's photographic art has been honored in exhibits around the world and can be seen in editorial features and advertising campaigns. Her other collections include Hawaiian Goddesses, Powerstones, 'Ano Lani: The Hawaiian Monarchy Years, Story of the Stone, and Waimea: A Big Island Treasure.

We had a great event with Linda Ching. It was a pleasure to have such a talented artist in the store. We can't wait for her next project—so that we can invite her back again!
Author Event with Audrey Wilson
Aunty Audrey's Big Island Eats

On November 6th, we held a delicious author event with Audrey Wilson! Aunty Audrey was here to sign her new cookbook, Aunty Audrey's Big Island Eats, which shares Island recipes and culinary fare gathered from friends, family, chefs, restaurants, and home economists. It is a community collection of food that conjures nostalgic memories of dishes from restaurants now gone, and pays homage to the Island's farmers, ranchers, businessmen and women, and community leaders; it even reveals signature recipes from some of the Big Island's best–known chefs!

Audrey Wilson is a food columnist, cooking instructor, and author. She writes a weekly column for the Hawaii Tribune Herald called "Let's Talk Food," and has taught cooking classes at Ke Anuenue Area Health Center, Hilo Adult Education, and several Big Island senior centers. Audrey and her husband Jim live in Volcano, where they operate AJ's Volcano Cottage, a bed–and–breakfast, and AJ's Volcano Cooking School.

Many fans stopped by Basically Books to meet and talk story with Aunty Audrey. It was great to spend time with Audrey and Jim. Audrey is a local Hilo girl and has many interesting stories about our hometown! We thoroughly enjoyed having her visit, and we hope she will come back soon!
Black & White Night 2010
with Special Guests Caren Loebel–Fried and Kaliko Beamer–Trapp
Plus The Hilo Crybabies

Every November, downtown Hilo throws an elegant evening street party, full of music, food, and fun! This is Black & White Night, one of Hilo's most celebrated traditions. It is always a good time, and Black & White Night 2010 was no exception! To celebrate the night, Basically Books hosted an author event with Caren Ke'ala Loebel–Fried and Kaliko Beamer–Trapp, as well as a live musical performance by the Hilo Crybabies!

Caren and Kaliko stopped by to sign and discuss their new book, Legend of the Gourd. This magical tale delves into the past of the Children of the Gourd, who live in the district of Ka'u, and reveals how the people of this region came to be named. In the old days of Hawaii, a young man and woman fall in love. Though both are descended from chiefs, their relationship is forbidden. The young couple runs away together, accompanied by many who cared for them. The chieftess becomes ill and cannot recover. Follow in the footsteps of the chief as he makes his way from Kama'oa to Kapu'a, on a journey that solidifies the future of his people. Illustrated in Caren's signature woodblock style and including a Hawaiian language translation by Kaliko, this book is a treasure for the eyes and mind as well as the imagination.

Our event with the Legend of the Gourd team was great! They signed many books, and had a number of lively conversations with fans. Kaliko was so delighted with our gourd centerpiece that he asked to take it with him; it has now traveled with them to all of their events! Caren and Kaliko had such a good time at Basically Books that they stayed well into the Hilo Crybabies' musical entertainment, continuing to greet customers and sign books.

Later in the evening, we did some moving and grooving with the ever-popular Hilo Crybabies! They got everyone jumping with their energetic old–time music.

Throughout the evening, we handed out at least 300 balloons to the throng of people who came out despite some pretty stormy weather. It was a truly wonderful evening, and we can't wait until next year's Black & White Night in Downtown Hilo!
Author Event with John P. Lockwood and Richard W. Hazlett — Volcanoes: Global Perspectives

On October 2nd, we were fortunate enough to welcome Professors John Lockwood and Richard Hazlett to Basically Books for a fascinating volcano event! Lockwood and Hazlett presented their new book, Volcanoes: Global Perspectives. More then just another volcano book, this exciting publication focuses on "Humanitarian Volcanology"—the application of volcanology to the needs of society. Using both Hawaiian and global examples, this beautifully illustrated book goes far beyond the study of volcanoes merely as geological features, and will interest professional volcanologists and amateur volcanophiles alike!

Our event was a meeting of the scientists, with many visitors from Hilo's scientific community. It was great to listen to the attendees swapping stories of life in the field. Jack entertained us with his store of interesting anecdotes from his years working for the U.S. Geological Survey. Rick Hazlett also signed copies of his book Roadside Geology of Hawaii.
Author and Artist Event with Victor Pellegrino and Linda Rowell Stevens
Uncle Kawaiola's Dream: A Hawaiian Story

On Saturday, August 21^st, Basically Books held a wonderful booksigning event with Victor Pellegrino and Linda Rowell Stevens, author and illustrator of Uncle Kawaiola's Dream: A Hawaiian Story! Written in English with Hawaiian words, this 'aina–based story focuses on lo'i kalo restoration on Maui, and centers around Uncle Kawaiola's "dream story" as told to his niece and nephew, Naupaka and Ho'ala. Based on his passion to restore his great grandfather Nahau's 'aina, Uncle Kawaiola faces challenges which he overcomes based on the Hawaiian cultural values of laulima and 'ohana. He teaches his niece and nephew that achieving a goal requires the help of one's family and community, and he learns from his mentor Kalima that "taking small steps" toward a goal is the way to reach it. The story is inspiring, healing, and grounding. Though marketed as a children's book, this excellent story can be enjoyed by readers of all ages!

Appropriately, our event with Vic and Linda was full of fans, friends and 'ohana! Aside from a small crowd of fans of all ages, the signing was attended by Vic's wife and son, and Linda's husband. Several of Linda's Qi Kung sisters also stopped by. The combination of readers and family made for a friendly group with many lively conversations. It was a great day!

Victor C. Pellegrino is a Professor of Writing at Maui Community College. He has received numerous teaching awards, and has published 13 books on topics ranging from poetry to cooking. Linda Rowell Stevens is a celebrated artist whose diverse talents include doll making, painting, sculpture, fashion design, jewelry, ceramics, and glass. What a taltented team! Both were a joy to have in the store, and we hope to welcome them back again soon.
Author Event with Keahi Felix
Wahine Noa: For the Life of My Country

On August 7^th Basically Books was proud to host a very special author event with Keahi Felix! Keahi's important new book, Wahine Noa: for the life of my country is one woman's challenge to assumptions that regard Hawai'i as part of the United States, and lays out the case for how and why the opposite is true. Convinced that knowledge is better caught than taught, the author uses a variety of writing styles, including story telling, expository prose, and poetry, to invite readers into deeper levels of understanding and personal dialogue with the subject matter. The result is a beautiful and informative book that, rather then being about about U.S. bashing, is foremost a call to respect for the national integrity of Hawai'i. It is about transforming victimization into productive protest.

The book comes with a powerpoint CD that includes an imaginative story poem inspired by an event in the author's life that connects to the Kumulipo, the Hawaiian creation chant.

Born and raised in Hawai'i, Felix holds a B.A. from Chaminade University of Honolulu and an M.A. from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. As a Hawaiian National she has spent 20 years investigating the issues that surround the Hawaiian Kingdom's authentic legal and political status.

Our event with Keahi was powerful and informative. Keahi spoke and signed books for an enthusiastic and concerned audience, and everyone left a little better informed on this important subject. Mahalo to Keahi and everyone who helped make this a great event!
Keiki Event with Author Christine Taylor Sprowl Tetak
Legend of the Hula Moose

On July 31^st Basically Books hosted a delightful event with Christine Taylor Sprowl Tetak, author of the new children's book Legend of the Hula Moose! Hula Moose? Yes! This story is about two yearling moose separated from their mothers, who meet up and begin a search to reunite with their families. While searching, they mingle with a herd of longhorn cattle destined to be gifts 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! After landing in Hawaii, they escape during a storm to the high mountain forests of 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.

Christine, who is a first grade teacher at Guadalupe Elementary School in San Jose, California, was a delight to have in the store. Her warm and enthusiastic personality engaged her young listeners and inspired a lot of audience participation! Keiki were invited up to "man" the stuffed puppets provided by Tetak; several lucky children had great fun being the turtle, shark and octopus. Christine brought shell lei for the boys and silk flower wrist lei for the girls, as well as moose finger puppets for the children who helped with the puppets.

Everyone who attended enjoyed this wonderful event, and Christine was a delightful guest. We hope to welcome her back soon!
First Friday Event with Author Odette Rickert
The Seas Stay Waiting: Poems and Photographs of Life on Hawaii Island

On July 2^nd, Basically Books celebrated First Friday in Downtown Hilo with special guest Odette Rickert, author of the visually and poetically lovely book The Seas Stay Waiting. This collection invites the reader on a refreshing journey through the wonders of a large island with a dramatic history, an indigenous culture connected to the land and its natural rhythms, and a precious, fragile ecosystem. Readers can immerse themselves in the pleasures and the complexity of this fascinating place. Familiarize yourself with the Hawaiian language and art forms. Enliven your imagination and senses through color photographs and enjoy special moments captured through Rickert's moving verse.

Odette Rickert has called Hilo home since 2005. Always looking to immerse herself in local culture, she has studied hula for five years and attends classes in Hawaii's history, indigenous practices, and 'olelo (language). Countless magical moments on the Big Island inspired Odette to share her observations and experiences through these poems and photographs. Our even with Odette was also a magical island moment! She signed books for fans and gave a short reading and talk. Her friendly presence made it a great event!
Author Event with Clear Englebert
Feng Shui Demystified

On May 29^th Basically Books was pleased to host an event with Feng Shui expert and friend of the store Clear Englebert! Englebert is the author of several bestselling feng shui books, including Feng Shui for Hawaii and the newly revised and expanded Feng Shui Demystified. Our event was attended by a small crowd of avid Feng Shui disciples, several of whom were already waiting when Clear arrived at the store! Clear brought a few props for a short demonstration, and counseled each person individually on their home. Everyone got a chance to share their questions and concerns, and everyone left with a smile on their face and a book in hand. Mr. Englebert even took some time after the event to talk to some of the Basically Books staff about our own houses.

Clear is a recognized feng shui expert, who has been featured many times on television programs and in print media. He is currently working on his next book, Feng Shui for Hawaii Gardens. We look forward to Clear's next book, and with it the opportunity to welcome this knowledgeable and gracious author back to the store! For more information on Clear Englebert and his work, please visit www.fungshway.com.
Konane Demonstration by The Konane Brothers

To finish off Merrie Monarch week, we welcomed Bob Belcher of the Konane Brothers! He gave a excellent demonstration of Konane, an ancient Hawaiian game that is equally enjoyable in modern times. Cyril Pahinui even stayed on after his performance to play a couple of rousing games of Konane with Mr. Belcher! A number of interested patrons also sat down to learn about and play Konane.

The Konane Brothers handcraft high–quality wooden Konane boards at their Volcano Village workshop, and sponsor demonstrations and tournaments to help perpetuate an ancient game for modern times. Their games are now on sale at Basically Books.
Live Performance By Local Musical Legend Cyril Pahinui

On Friday, April 9^th, we were happy to continue what is becoming a Basically Books tradition — a Merrie Monarch Week performance by local legend Cyril Pahinui! Uncle Cyril is a one of the greats — a true master slack key guitar artist. Cyril played some of his favorite songs, and reminisced about his father, Gabby, and growing up around music. Before playing the classic song "Hi'ilawe," he told about his experience visiting Waipio Valley and watching the children working in the taro fields—and how, as he looked up the valley he pondered on the fact that the water that the taro was growing in originated at the twin falls of Hi'ilawe. His rendition of that beloved song was very moving.

Cyril's wife, Chelle, graced us with a dance—as did several other members of the audience! A great time was had by all!
2010 Merrie Monarch Poster Signing with Artist Rod Cameron

Our Merrie Monarch Thursday continued with artist Rod Cameron, who stopped by the store to talk story and sign copies of the poster that he created for this year's Merrie Monarch Festival! A group with piles of posters was waiting for him to arrive. There are still signed copies available at the store, and Rod promised to continue supplying us with signatures. Rod has already been commissioned to work on the poster for next year, and he told us that he has already completed it—in his head. We look forward to seeing it when it is finished! Until then, you can catch more of his work on display at galleries throughout the islands.
Hula Performance with Stan Kaina and Leo Nahenahe 'O Pohai Kealoha

On April 8^th we were treated to another special Merrie Monarch Week event— an in–store performance with Stan Kaina and the ladies of halau Leo Nahenahe 'O Pohai Kealoha! Stan was joined by guest musicians on steel guitar and upright bass. An enthusiastic audience gathered to hear Stan's clear falsetto voice and watch the lovely and sometimes saucy dances of the ladies! A few audience members even joined the fun with impromptu dancing! There were plenty of smiles and laughter all around.

Stan and family were really in the Merrie Monarch spirit this year—they entered a float in the Merrie Monarch Parade, and it placed third! Congratulations Stan and Piilani!

We loved having such wonderful music and hula in our store. A big Mahalo from us to all of the performers!
Lomilomi Massage and Hawaiian Plants Lecture and Demo with Suzanne Kamaluhia Woolley and Dane Silva

Merrie Monarch Week 2010 continued on April 7^th with Suzanne Kamaluhia Woolley and Dane Silva! These Hawaiian healing experts treated us to a very informative presentation on the Hawaiian healing arts. Kamaluhia Woolley shared her thoughts on and approach to using Lomilomi and Hawaiian herbs in her spa treatments. Christine Reed, our owner, even got to be the subject of a Lomilomi massage demonstration! Dane Silva spoke about his favorite plants and their uses in Hawaiian healing. Both shared memories and thoughts about some of the elders, teachers and mentors who have shared knowledge with them.

Suzanne Kamaluhia Woolley owns and runs Hale Ho'ola Hawaiian Healing Arts Center and Spa in Volcano, and specializes in traditional and contemporary Hawaiian treatments that utilize local organic ingredients. Dane Silva is a licensed massage therapist and is certified as an instructor by the Hawaiian Lomilomi Association. He is a founding member of the Kupuna La'au Lapa'au 'O Hawai'i. We would be happy to welcome these two back to Basically Books any time!
Local Musician Ben Kaili Live at Basically Books

We kicked off this year's Merrie Monarch Week on April 6^th with a special in–store performance by Uncle Ben Kaili! Ben attracted an enthusiastic group of listeners, who were delighted with his signature slack key guitar and vocals. Several happy customers had him sign their CD covers so they could take a little bit of the event home with them. Uncle Ben's two CDs, Kaowahi and Kanakapila, are available at Basically Books.
African American History Event with Dr. Ayin Adams, Dr. Kathryn Waddell Takara, and Special Guest Helene Hale

On April 3^rd Basically Books was honored to host a special African American History Event with Dr. Ayin Adams and Dr. Kathryn Waddell Takara! Also in attendance was special guest of honor Helene Hale, the first woman of African descent to be elected to office in Hawaii. First up was Dr. Ayin Adams, editor of African Americans In Hawaii: A Search For Identity. She gave a brief talk about her journey collecting and editing this compilation, and her intention to continue the project by coming out with a new edition. She then presented Helene Hale with a plaque representing her Lifetime Achievement Award for contributions to the community in Education and Politics.

Next up was Dr. Kathryn Waddell Takara, who presented a collection of her poetry entitled Tourmalines: Beyond the Ebony Portal. This stirring collection focuses on Black history and African Americans, represented by various colorful gemstones, with a variety of characteristics, properties and histories, and reflecting their unique experiences in their worlds. Dr. Takara gave a spirited and inspiring reading of several poems. As a long time professor and performance artist, her delivery was powerful and mesmerizing. It was a very inspiring and uplifting experience.

All in all, our African American History Event was...amazing. The guests were incredibly high–powered, articulate and generous–spirited women. The event was well attended by a wonderful group of equally energetic, educated and talented people who welcomed our guests with enthusiasm. Dr. Adams even discovered several audience members who she plans to interview for her next book! We at Basically Books look forward to welcoming back Dr. Adams, Dr. Takara, or Helene Hale anytime!
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