This is the story about the man who grew to unite the Hawaiian Islands. It would be a great introduction text for the unit on Hawaiian Folklore because it gives the story of how the Islands were "conquered and united." The story follows Kamehameha who from lonely boy grows to be a great, noble man.

The introduction of the story involves vocabulary that will deepen the student's knowledge of the culture of Hawaii. The introduction also includes an answer to the question "Who were the ancient Hawaiians?" Although it could be dense for younger kids, it would give them great background knowledge on where the legends they are learning about came from.

Winner of the prestigious Ka Palapala Po'okela Award, Ellie Crowe brings to life Kamehameha's early years. Beautifully illustrated. ( )