A Volcanic Exploration: Hiking on Hawai'i's “Big Island”

Beginning some 1,500 years ago, Hawaii was one of the last Edens to be exploited by human beings, and its transformation has been among the most rapid. Seeking to improve life, humans have grossly altered the living nature of the Islands from the coral reefs to the volcanic summits. Since the first arrival of Polynesian canoes, Hawaii has been a venue of accelerating extinction and today leads the United States in the rate of permanent loss of native plants and animals.

This introduction to the ethnobotany of the Hawaiian culture before contact with foreigners describes the plants themselves, preparation and uses of plant materials, and how the plants and artifacts made from them were used as food, canoes, houses, wearing apparel, musical instruments, medicine, and in fishing, games and sports, war, religion, and burial.

This full-color, 156 page award-winning book tells the fascinating story of the Hawaiian Islands and their wildlife.

General

Based on years of work in the documentary sources, Shoal of Time emerges as the most readable of all Hawaiian histories.

This is a great book for delving into the myths, gods, legend and lore of Hawaii's people.

This landmark field guide with chapters on the islands and habitats features superb color plates by Pratt and a checklist of birds.

This perennial favorite offers a wonderful introduction to the Hawaiian Islands. With its active volcanos, pristine beaches, dramatic sunsets, and leisurely lifestyle, Hawaii has something for everyone. This large-format tribute deepens readers' understanding of this unique state. The authors profile historical events from Hawaii s discovery to its statehood. They present a fascinating range of facts about the ecology of the islands, including its rare plants and animals, and a sampling of local expressions. The Illustrated Atlas of Hawaii is equally useful as a reliable reference, a keepsake for visitors, and a lively read for anyone interested in learning more about this island paradise. Offering a wonderful introduction to the Hawaiian Islands, its colorful illustrations graciously complement the enlightening text. Written by experts on Hawaii s history and heritage, this unique atlas contains an abundance of fascinating information on some of the world s most beautiful islands.

General Environment