59 pages • 1 hour read
James A. MichenerHawaii
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1959A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Hawaii by James A. Michener follows the geological formation of the Hawaiian Islands through millions of years and the arrival of various groups, including Polynesians, New England missionaries, Chinese immigrants, and Japanese laborers. The novel chronicles their struggles and adaptations from the early 19th century to the late 1940s, showcasing cultural clashes and evolving social dynamics among diverse communities. The book contains incidents of racism, sexual violence, human sacrifice, warfare, and other scenes of violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Readers praise Hawaii by James A. Michener for its extensive historical detail and rich storytelling, capturing the island's complex cultural tapestry. The novel's immersive narrative spans centuries, offering deep character development. However, some criticize its length and occasionally slow pace. Overall, it’s lauded for educational value and engaging prose.
Who Should Read Hawaii?
A reader who enjoys Hawaii by James A. Michener is typically fascinated by captivating historical epics, rich cultural exploration, and intricate character development. Similar audiences revel in Ken Follett's The Pillars of the Earth and Herman Wouk's The Winds of War for their detailed, sweeping narratives and complex histories.