The Whale Rider
Book description
Eight-year-old Kahu craves her great-grandfather's love and attention. But he is focused on his duties as chief of a Maori tribe in Whangara, on the East Coast of New Zealand - a tribe that claims descent from the legendary 'whale rider'. In every generation since the whale rider, a male…
Why read it?
2 authors picked The Whale Rider as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
I love the ocean, and love stories about strong, ground-breaking young women. This tale is beautifully set in a coastal town in New Zealand. Kahu, a young girl from a lineage of Maori leaders, can communicate with whales. Her grandfather does not expect this and rejects her because of her gender. Kahu proves without a doubt that she is a competent and natural leader. I love how Kahu prevails. She is strong in herself, and she never shies away from the truth – that she is the natural leader and a whale rider like her ancestor.
From Giulietta's list on girl-power and magic.
An international bestseller with an amazing film version, this book set in the north of Aotearoa New Zealand, tells the story of eight-year Kahu, last in a chiefly line, who, in trying to win the respect of her grandfather, discovers she has inherited the ability to communicate with whales. It’s a beautiful book that really stirs the emotions and once read, stays with you forever.
From Mandy's list on feature indigenous Pacific or Māori characters.
Want books like The Whale Rider?
Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like The Whale Rider.
Share your top 3 reads of 2024!
And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.
1,187
readers submitted
so far, will you?
