A new generation of young Tokelauan authors are leading the way to keep the stories of their elders alive in a new series of books.
Heta Pulu, Frank Kolo, Kaybrielle Penina Ineleo and Timene Pue are part of a project led by author David Riley and Reverend Pue that created a series of five gana Tokelau bilingual language books with a focus on helping young people learn more about their homeland and their language.
A special blessing and launch of the series of books was held at the Centre for Pacific Languages in Manukau with family and members of the Tokelau community.
To mark the special celebration, the Centre for Pacific Languages gifted 50 copies of the books to the families of the authors, and members of the Tokelau community who were at the launch.
Book 1: E Kamata i te Mulipapa by Frank Koro.
Book 2: Ko te Fagatuaga Hili ia i te Lalolagi By Heta Pulu.
Book 3: Ko te Vaka Pito Haohaoa i Nukunonu by Kaybrielle Ineleo.
Book 4: Mālū i Loto o te Afā by Timena Pue.
Book 5: Ni Toa Mai Fakaofo by Frank Koro
David Riley says, “I love this project because it’s multi-generational, grandparents tell the stories, parents do the connecting and the grandchildren write them. Family bonds are strengthened in the connection and storytelling.”
To purchase a copy of the books, visit here.
