Lois-Ann Yamanaka Books

Set in 1913, the story follows Anah, the sole survivor of her sisters sent to St. Joseph's orphanage for tuberculosis treatment in Hawai'i. As she prepares for marriage, the spirits of her deceased sisters haunt her, torn between a longing for her love and jealousy of her life. Anah's struggle to find peace leads her to realize that redemption may only come through one of her own daughters, intertwining themes of love, loss, and the haunting impact of family ties.

Set in Hilo, the story revolves around Toni Yagyuu, who navigates the chaos of her family life above the Yagyuu taxidermy shop. While the shop attracts a lively crowd, Toni faces challenges with her demanding younger sister, a flamboyant brother aspiring to be a hairdresser, and a father resistant to her involvement in the family business. Complicating matters are the Santos brothers, two ex-football players and pig hunters, who are unsure how to handle Toni's strong personality.

Set in Hilo, Lovey Nariyoshi navigates life in a blue-collar family amidst Hawaii's beauty, confronting poverty and social challenges. With her quirky best friend Jerry, she faces schoolyard bullies, class struggles, and the realities of labor on a macadamia nut plantation. The narrative blends sharp satire of local culture with poignant reflections on identity, all enriched by the vibrant use of pidgin—Hawai'i Creole English—showcasing a unique voice in contemporary literature.

A celebration of home, family, and finding beauty in your heritage, beautifully illustrated by the artist behind Anti-Racist Baby . Claire has been surrounded by the deep blue waves of Hapuna Beach and the magnificent mountains of Hawai'i all her life, but has never, ever seen snow. When her father drives her and her family to the top of the Mauna Kea, she can't help but to be disappointed...it's not the winter wonderland she's always dreamed of. And that's what she wants, more than anything.But as Claire edges ever closer to the new year, she wonders if maybe-- just maybe--she can delight in the special joys of winter in her own way--right there, on her Big Island of Hawaii.Includes backmatter that captures the environmental culture of Hawaii, and will teach children not only about the local flora and fauna, but also the value of being environmentally friendly.

The narrative follows Sonia Kurisu, a young mother from working-class Hawaii, as she navigates the challenges of raising her son amidst a troubled past filled with addiction and toxic relationships. Through a dual timeline, the story reveals her difficult childhood and the emotional weight of the three children she never had. With a focus on resilience and the transformative nature of love, this powerful tale showcases the complexity of Sonia's journey toward self-discovery and redemption.