A President from Hawai‘i: Book Reading and Signing
Join us for a book reading of A President from Hawai‘i, the first children’s book to be published in Hawai‘i about President Obama. The book was released in July 2009 from Banana Patch Press and was selected by Hawaii’s Center for the Book as their title to represent the state of Hawai‘i at this year’s National Book Festival in Washington, DC, held September 26 on the National Mall.
Time:
Friday, September 25, 2009, Noon
Location:
Presidential Suite
National Museum of American History
14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW
Metro:
Smithsonian (Orange or Blue lines)
According to Diane Eddy, Director of the Hawai‘i State Library and head of Hawaii’s Center for the Book, their selection process is a rigorous one. A President from Hawai‘i was reviewed by librarians, educators, and Hawaiian cultural experts for approval. The book illustrates Hawaii’s unique history and Hawaiian cultural values, as well as exploring the Aloha State’s influence on our 44th President. First Lady Michelle Obama has said, “You can’t really understand Barack until you understand Hawai‘i.”
The reading of the book is as unique and innovative as the book itself, and brings Hawaiian cultural practices alive for the audience. Healani Youn will open the reading with an oli (chant), a Hawaiian blessing she composed for President Obama. Authors Dr. Terry Carolan and Joanna Carolan’s reading of the book will be accompanied by the beautiful slack key guitar music of Keli‘i Kāneali‘i, giving the feel of “talking story” in Hawai‘i. The reading will be followed by Hawaiian music and hula by Keli‘i Kāneali‘i and Healani Youn.
(Left to right) Healani Youn, Keli‘i Kaneali‘i, Joanna F. Carolan, and Terry Carolan.
A President from Hawai‘i was written by award-winning children’s book author and Kaua‘i pediatrician, Dr. Terry Carolan. The color illustrations combined with historic and contemporary photographs by Kaua‘i artist, Joanna Carolan, wife of Dr. Carolan, capture the vibrancy and beauty of Hawai‘i. This is the seventh children’s book published by the husband and wife team, all of which have Hawai‘i themes.
The book is accompanied by an audio CD featuring two of Hawaii’s top recording artists, Amy Hanaiali‘i, winner of 14 Na Hoku Hanohano Awards and 3-time Grammy® Nominee, and Keli‘i Kāneali‘i, winner of 6 Na Hoku Hanohano awards and founding member of the musical group “Hapa.” The CD also includes an oli (chant) by Kumu Hula and Merrie Monarch “Miss Aloha Hula” award winner, Healani Youn. The book is for children 8 and older, but certainly will appeal to adults, as well.
This event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited.
A book signing will follow the reading and performance.
This event is co-sponsored by the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
Aloha! I saw this reading recently on Oahu – it was unforgettable. DON’T miss it if you get a chance to catch it in DC!!
Where/When is scheduled reading for Maui? ca
My medical school classmate looks well and happy. I’m thrilled for his success. All my best, Terry.
Went to the D.C. reading, Bianca was right, certainly worth it!