"The Mäui story probably contains a larger number of unique and ancient mythsthan that of any other legendary character in the mythology of any nation." WilliamDrake WesterveltMäui is a mythic figure known throughout Polynesia who lifts up the heavens,and fishes up islands from beneath the sea with his magic fishhook; a folkhero that snares the sun to make it move more slowly, and shares the secret ofmaking fire. Mäui is the mischief maker, benefactor, worker of miracles. As ademigod he used his supernatural power to benefit his people; but he also lovedto play pranks. Mäui is well loved for his mixture of human and godlike qualities.Stories of Mäui have been passed on for countless generations, spread farand wide due to the great seafaring prowess of voyagers sailing across the vastarea of Moananuiakea, the Pacific Ocean.In Hawaiian folklore he is known for slowing the sun to help his mother,Hina, have time for her kapa to dry. He pulls the Hawaiian islands from the seaand rescues Hina from the vicious mo'o Kuna. His exploits are vast and varied;the best known among them are The Seven Great Deeds of Mäui, which arecollected and retold here.
Dietrich Varez Book order (chronological)


Pele, the fire goddess
- 47 pages
- 2 hours of reading
The legend of Pele, goddess of Hawaii's Kilauea volcano, is beautifully and simply retold by Dietrich Varez and Pua Kanaka`ole Kanahele in this striking volume. Dietrich Varez (an artist who works in Volcano, Hawaii) has vividly illustrated each page with compelling linocut prints that bring Pele's story to life, and create a visually delightful experience to accompany this ancient legend. review from Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/Pele-Fire-Godde...