When the storytellers of ancient Hawaii gathered by the light of candlenut torches they told tales that explained the world around them. These tales described how the gods created the earth and its life how the stars were created and why the days are longer in summer. Other stories recounted the pranks of Kamapuaa the PigMan the origin of the tapa tree the death of the monster reptile moo and the home of the volcano goddess Pele. From this rich body of mythology author Vivian Thompson has drawn twelve myths. She retells them with the true flavor and simplicity of the storytellers of long ago. Thompsons words are accompanied by the illustrations of Hawaii artist Marilyn Kahalewai who has captured the delight and drama of the ancient tales. show more