The Story of Hula

by Carla Golembe

Tells the history of the hula, from modern hula as an entertainment, to ancient hula, which teaches the spiritual and cultural traditions of Hawai'i.

32 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Javon Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical Fiction, Grades 3-5

The Story of Hula informs keikis (children) about the history and art to the dance of Hula. The book begins with a Hawaiian hula teacher telling her students about different aspects of hula in preparation for their dance. Her students learn about the "mele", the song and chant of hula. The teacher also tell her students about the importance of the history, traditions, and costumes that all play a significant role in a hula dance.

This book also comes with a CD to help readers pronounce Hawaiian words in the book! This makes this read a fun option for small group instruction or a whole class read. I chose to read this book because my parents are from Hawaii and recommended this book to teach young readers about the art of hula and Hawaiian history.

[Kaleo Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve owned this book with the audiobook CD since 2005. It’s in perfect condition still and I had it as a child, at the age of 10. I was able to read it to my son and play the audiobook through our boombox. What a beautiful story of hula and he really enjoyed it. My son was talking and looking at each picture in the book and responding to the narrator.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hawaii