Hawaii

A Novel

By: James A. Michener, Steve Berry - introduction

Narrated by: Larry McKeever, Fred Sanders - introduction

The saga of a land from the time when the volcanic islands rose out of the sea to the decade in which they become the 50th state. Michener uses individuals' experiences to symbolize the struggle of the various races to establish themselves in the islands.

©2017 James A. Michener (P)2017 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

"One novel you must not miss! A tremendous work from every point of view - thrilling, exciting, lusty, vivid, stupendous." ( Chicago Tribune)

"From Michener's devotion to the islands, he has written a monumental chronicle of Hawaii, an extraordinary and fascinating novel." ( Saturday Review)

Worth every minute.

I live in Hawaii and this book really captures the history, which is a mixed bag to say the least. Narration is very solid and matches the content.
One of the few books of this length I am very likely to listen to again.

Poor Narrative, great story

Great story but being a native of Hawaii, narrative of Hawaiian words poorly spoken. What a shame.

Wow!

My dad always loved Michener and I always avoided him because the type in the books was so ridiculously small. Now I understand.

This is a sweeping story of the development of an amazing society. It shows the good and bad in every group and ultimately shows just how human we all are. It’s still startlingly timely in its parallels to what’s happening in American society now. Please listen.

Such an important story

Published in 1959, Michener’s Hawaii is a somewhat brutal, yet wonderfully written reminder that the human struggle- culturally, socioeconomically, and ethnically has so affected civilizations throughout time. And the “good over evil” theme is the most important take over that hopefully reminds all of you to make the world a better place.

Deeper than I thought. A new favorite book!

I stayed with friends descended from the old Families in Kuaui. When I have been there with them I heard stories about the family and hints of the history there. I also felt the emotions running underneath the people there in the “real” parts of the island. I remembered this book and mini series from my childhood. I’m glad I did. Best investment of Audible credits yet.


I figured this book would be dated. It was not! What a multifaceted study in the clash and ongoing unifications of cultures. The characters are rounded and fascinating. Warts and all. No political correctness here. Every culture has its died in the wool prejudices side by side with its inspired virtues that any human can stand before in tearful admiration. There is real prejudice, injustice and privilege. There is also redemption, courage, wisdom and love.

The characters will live in my mind from here on. My first review and I can’t recommend Hawaii more highly.

Great history of Hawaii

Great story of the history of Hawaii from the beginning up until 1960. Good character development and interesting details that kept me as the listener hooked. Highly recommend.

This book is brilliantly written!

The book is well written and brilliantly performed. now I know so much more about my happy place

Still great after all this time

I read Hawaii at least twice when I was young. It was a joy to listen to this as an audiobook. The narrator, Larry McKeever, was fine once I got used to his narration and after I increased the speed to 1.5.

I listened to this audiobook over several weeks as I took my walks. I was entirely caught up in the story and in all the characters. I enjoyed the formation of the island and the journey of the native Hawaiians. Also the gathering of the missionaries, the Chinese, the Japanese and their long histories on the island.

A terrific book.

Best book ever!

Amazing! Bravo! This book has kept me entertained for many hours while driving. An education take to boot! This is my first Michener book, I’m going to download another right now. He is a superb writer.

The history of how Hawaii came to be

I found this book fascinating from almost the beginning to the end. I was not as fascinated with the formation and the ecology of the islands but I guess it helped to provide a starting point. I really enjoyed learning about the prejudices and customs of the early settlers. No matter where we come from we are all basically the same people. Family is important, honor is important and people, when given the chance will always try to control/manipulate their environment.
I really feel like l have a better understanding of the people that live there now. I wish it was updated to the present time. The history ends in the 1950’s. Overall this is one of the best books l have listened to. The narrator’s voice was fluid and soothing.