The Polynesian family system in Ka-U, Hawaii
by E.S. Craighill Handy, Mary Kawena Pukui
Category: Social Science

This classic book on Hawaiian families and culture is an essential text for anyone interested in pre-American Hawaii. The Polynesian Family System in Ka-'U, Hawai'i is a collaboration of the distinguished scholars Dr. Mary Puku and Dr. E.S. Craighill Handy. It provides us with this fascinating review of traditional Hawaiian life. Manners and customs relating to birth, death, marriage, sexual practices, religious beliefs, and family relationship are all clearly described. The main sources of information were elderly Hawaiian informants of then remote Kacu district of the island of Hawaii. This Hawaiian history and culture book provides professional scholars and laymen a like with an unrivaled picture of traditional Hawaiian society. Based on original work in the field with living Hawaiians, it combines research into the literature by two authors of unusual qualifications with field work conducted under unique circumstances. This edition will be welcomed by librarians, anthropologists, and indeed all who have a serious interest in Polynesian life.