Kamaka

Kahuna at the Crossroads of Ancient Hawaii

Fiction - Literary
270 Pages
Reviewed on 04/09/2023
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    Book Review

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Kamaka: Kahuna at the Crossroads of Ancient Hawaii is a work in the historical, literary, cultural, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience and is penned by J. E. Cherry. In this moving and heartfelt piece about old Hawaii during a time that could either be truly historical or somewhat mythological, we meet the Kahuna, Kamaka. An apprentice builder, Kamaka's life takes a turn toward leadership, courage, and healing when he answers the call of his people. We are introduced to his culture and beliefs at a critical time when the violence of invaders may threaten everything he and his people know, and it’s up to the Kahuna to defend his land.

J. E. Cherry has crafted a heartfelt and slow-burning narrative that blends beautifully with its backdrop of ancient Hawaiian culture, spirituality, and education. The best way I can describe this story is like stepping into a painting; such is the rich visual quality of the descriptive work about Hawaii. You feel as though you’re becoming a part of the culture and the Kahuna’s community the more you learn about them. This makes it all the more dramatic and emotionally resonant when his people's harmonious and deeply spiritual lives are threatened by foreign warriors seeking dominance, giving it a sudden dramatic injection that helps cement the overall meaning. I highly recommend Kamaka: Kahuna at the Crossroads of Ancient Hawaii as an insightful and compelling literary work.