CRIES FROM THE MOANA (Paperback) ⫸ by 'Atu Emberson-Bain with Melino Bain-Vete & Siale Bain-Vete

⌲ 114 pages

Follow the magical story of Mahina and Tahi who are unexpectedly chosen by their village elders one day for a special mission. Their journey takes them across the Pacific Ocean in search of a secret passage, then all the way down to the ocean floor to find out what threatens its survival.

Feel their excitement and awe as they encounter fascinating ocean creatures and untangle some mysteries of the deep. Then discover why a huge and terrifying machine lies abandoned on the seabed. But can anything be done to save the ocean creatures and their habitat from this terrifying intruder? And will the children make it back home safely, and in time, to deliver an urgent message from the spirit world? Will the fact that Mahina is blind be a hindrance or a help?

Cries from the Moana celebrates the beauty and bounty of the ocean and the unique spiritual connection Pacific Islanders have with it. It is also a cautionary tale about an extractive industry that threatens to destroy rich ocean life forms, habitats, and ecosystems on which the survival and health of Pacific island societies depend. This book is an engaging story of family, friendship, and adventure that explores the themes of inclusion, forgiveness and team work; community and cultural identity; and ocean conservation. It is also a reminder that disability can sometimes open the door to something extraordinary.