HAWAIIAN ARTIST CREATES COLORING BOOK TO SHARE HERITAGE WITH YOUNGER GENERATION

Maui-born Ben W. Holokai Jr. has adapted and illustrated Myths and Legends of Hawaii Coloring Book, just published by Bess Press , as an “interactive learning” tool for young people whose knowledge of their heritage grows fainter with time. Holokai, a member of the “transition generation,” the generation of Hawaiians who came of age before World War II, grew up hearing stories of gods and goddesses, kings and queens, ghosts and goblins, giant lizards and ferocious owls, told by his elders in a way that promoted awe and fear.

In Myths and Legends of Hawaii Coloring Book, the first in a series covering mythology, history, and culture, Holokai uses an illustration style he calls “more serious” than that of most coloring books to appeal to budding artists as well as to those interested in the myths and legends. On numerous trips to the Bishop Museum from his home in California (where he has worked as an aerospace illustrator, cartoonist, and animator), he meticulously researched the myths and legends as well as the plants and animals that appear in the illustrations. Those myths and legends, fifteen in all, include stories about Kane, Ku, Lono, Maui , Pele, Hina, Kamapua‘a, and other gods and demigods.

A glossary that includes pronunciations and definitions makes the text accessible to younger readers while expanding their knowledge and vocabulary. A list of references for the myths and legends and for coloring the illustrations is also included.

Bess Press , celebrating 25 years of independent publishing is located in Honolulu , Hawai'i and publishes trade titles about Pacific-related topics in the following categories: children's literature, cookbooks, humor, sports, languages, reference books, and guidebooks.

Review copies and digital images are available from Bess Press: info@besspress.com , (808) 734-7159, ext. 21.

ISBN 1-57306-212-X, 32 pages, $5.95