Kapaemahu is a luminous picture book that reimagines an Indigenous Hawaiian legend about four Mahu—visionaries who embody dual male and female spirits—who voyage from Tahiti to Hawaii in the 15th century to share knowledge of science and healing. A timeless blend of myth and history, it speaks to readers of all ages who treasure stories of courage, generosity, and cultural resilience, told with warmth, wonder, and respect.

Written in lyrical, accessible prose and brought to life by radiant illustrations, Kapaemahu invites readers to step into Waikiki of long ago and witness a community's gratitude for gifts of healing and knowledge. The narrative flows with care, weaving together the Mahu's journey, the creation of a monument of four boulders, and the stones' enduring spirit even after they vanished and resurfaced in later years. Between the pages, readers will discover a celebration of Indigenous knowledge, memory, and the lasting power of culture to shape who we are.

• Indigenous Hawaiian legend of the Mahu and their voyage from Tahiti to Hawaii
• Gift of science and healing shared with Waikiki and its people
• Monument of four boulders and their healing powers
• Stunning illustrations by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, Dean Hamer, Joe Wilson, and Daniel Sousa
• Themes of identity, generosity, resilience, and cultural memory
• Kapaemahu's enduring storytelling anchors cultural memory for today
• Beautiful, lyrical writing that works for read-alouds and independent reading

After finishing Kapaemahu, readers carry a sense of connection to Hawaiian heritage, a deeper appreciation for healing knowledge, and a belief that stories can bridge time and place. This intimate, visually rich journey leaves you with warmth, curiosity, and a renewed sense of belonging—a lasting invitation to listen, learn, and share.