April 14, 2011

Hawaii: What to Read

I always like to bring a book on vacation that’s related to the area. However, there are surprisingly few books set in Hawaii. No idea why; it seems like the perfect setting for a flouncy 1920’s historical novel to me.

Mark Twain’s Letters from Hawaii seems to fits the bill…and has that great vintage cover, to boot. Do you have suggestions for books to take to the beach?

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This article was written by

mrsem

There are 8 comments for this article

Anonymous April 14, 2011 at 4:57 pm

If you haven't read it yet, I highly recommend Molokai, by Alan Brennert. An excellent read and set in Hawaii!
Jessica April 14, 2011 at 5:58 pm

Sarah Vowell's latest, Unfamiliar Fishes, is about Hawaii becoming a state. It just arrived this past week, so I haven't started it yet, but I love all her books so it will no doubt be excellent.
Two Pitties in the City April 14, 2011 at 6:14 pm

I too try to bring related books on our travels; I know this sounds so dorky, and not beachy, but have you read Michner's Hawaii? He uses fictional characters to tell the factual account of how Hawaii was developed. It was really fascinating.
Anonymous April 14, 2011 at 8:33 pm

Shark Dialogues by Kiana Davenport
Anonymous April 15, 2011 at 2:43 am

I love the idea of bringing a book related to the area, and I try to, too. I have so much delicious memories of what I read and where I was!

That's why I recommend this one – despite knowing its polarising effect! – "Eat, Pray, Love", which I read whilst blissfully stretched out on Hapuna Beach (Big Island)! 🙂

– sarah in canada
Schuyler April 15, 2011 at 3:11 pm

All of the books suggested are great, and you can add to that list "The Descendents" by Kaui Hemmings and of course, James Michner's classic "Hawaii". The former is being made into a movie starring George Clooney and directed by the same person who directed "Sideways". Part of the story is even set on Kauai.
Anonymous April 16, 2011 at 11:06 pm

MOLOKAI by Alan Brennert is fascinating and an entertaining read.
Bronwyn April 25, 2011 at 9:43 am

Sounds great! While not about Hawaii, I love reading "Justine" by Alexander Durell on the beach…

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