Legends of Gods and Ghosts (Hawaiian Mythology) Collected and Translated from the Hawaiian

This anthology gathers vivid legends from the Hawaiian islands, inviting listeners into a world where volcanoes, rainbows, and the sea shape mythic imagination. Unlike familiar European fairy tales, these stories echo the islands’ intimate relationship with nature, turning mountains, birds, and fish into characters of wonder. Helpful pronunciation notes let you glide through names like Maui and Ke‑alohi‑lani with confidence.

Among the opening tales is the Rainbow Maiden of Manoa, a princess whose endless cycle of death and rebirth mirrors the fleeting rainbows that crown the valley. Another story explains the brilliant colors of Hawaiian fish, attributing them to a chief who, after being driven into the sea, paints them at will. The legendary demigod Maui also appears, using a magical hook to pull islands from the deep and coaxing birds into visibility, showcasing his cleverness and generosity.