Experience Hawaii Through Books: Travel Guides, Novels & More

Hawaii’s ecological offerings of volcanoes, beaches, and rainforests make it a go-to vacation destination, but it also boasts a diverse, rich cultural mosaic. Try one of these expert travel guides if you’re looking to catch a wave or dive a little deeper into the history of these beautiful islands from the comfort of your own home. If you’re looking to escape, check out some local fiction, from personal elegies of heritage to sprawling historical tales — this is your ultimate guide to reading Hawaii from the writers who know it best.

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This historical novel follows a young Hawaiian girl who dreams of exploring the globe, only for her dreams to be cut short when she becomes sick and is sent into quarantine on the island of Moloka’i. She embraces life in the face of death in this inspiring story of resilience.

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This collection of stories explores contemporary Hawaii and all its complications. Kristiana Kahakauwila details the tension between tradition and tourism in her stunning debut work of belonging and legacy.

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Pulitzer Prize winner James Michener unfolds a meticulously researched, multigenerational epic spanning over a thousand years of Hawaiian history from the moment the volcanic islands emerged from the ocean floor to the development of the cultural mosaic we recognize today.

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Native Hawaiian Kainoa Daines brings traditional teachings to the mainland for anyone seeking a more balanced and thoughtful mindset. Containing beautiful photography, illustrations and brimming with local culture and folklore, this book is a slice of island life.

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A stunning photography book that dives into the history of surfing — even before it was called surfing. Hawaiians called it he’e nalu, or wave sliding. If you read just one book about the sport, make it this one.

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A family saga with a touch of the supernatural, this lush, lively debut follows a set of siblings running from their Hawaiian heritage until a strange set of events draws them back to the island.

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Following two generations of an immigrant family in Hawaii, The Color of Air weaves details of the real 1935 Mauna Loa volcanic eruption into a narrative of community and resilience.

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From the author of Jurassic Park and The Andromeda Strain comes another unrelenting science backed thriller. Surrounded by the remote forests of Oahu, a group of scientists discover a groundbreaking deadly nano weapon that threatens to pick them off one by one.

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From traditional landmarks to trendy photo spots, this essential guide from local experts has you covered on planning your dream trip to Hawaii.

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Notes From Your Bookseller

Meet your companion for a picture-perfect, bucket-list vacation. This expert advice will take you to all the must-see sights and have you island hopping like a pro.