KULEANA

This powerful coming-of-age story set in contemporary Hawaii follows a young native Hawaiian boy as he navigates the complex intersections of family legacy, cultural identity, and environmental activism. The narrative weaves together traditional Hawaiian values with modern challenges, creating a rich tapestry that explores what it truly means to have kuleana—responsibility and privilege—in today's world. Through vivid scenes of island life and authentic dialogue, readers are immersed in a story that feels both specific to Hawaiian culture and universal in its themes of belonging and purpose.

What makes this young adult novel particularly compelling is how it handles difficult topics like land development, cultural preservation, and intergenerational trauma with nuance appropriate for teen readers. The protagonist's journey from confusion to clarity mirrors the adolescent experience of finding one's place in the world, while the Hawaiian setting provides a fresh perspective rarely seen in mainstream literature. Teen readers will connect with the emotional authenticity, while parents will appreciate the thoughtful exploration of cultural responsibility and environmental stewardship that leaves a lasting impression about the importance of knowing where you come from.