Aloha.This week I am giving away a book of fiction called "This is Paradise" by Kristiana Kahakauwila. The story is based in Hawaii and from the excerpt I've read, I'm intrigued.
To be eligible to receive the free copy, all you have to do is write a word or phrase related to Hawaii in the comment section below.
You could write "pineapple" (though that industry has tanked there). "Spam" (I hear they sell spam-related products in McDonald's but I forgot to check while there.) "Sea turtle" (I spent several days on Oahu trying to spot one.)
Even the word "Hawaii."
Whatever. Although it would be fun to hear your word association and what you think of when you hear "Hawaii."
Shave ice? Poi? Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa?
Having visited once, I came to realize that people who grow up on Hawaii truly speak a different language, eat different foods, have a different sensibility about a lot of things.
It's not a foreign country but there are aspects of it that make you feel like you're in a very different place.
Many years ago, I read a book about Fiji called Changes in Latitude, knowing nothing about Fiji. But after visiting Fiji a couple of years ago, I decided to read it again. I appreciated it so much more having traveled there and experienced the culture.
I think that will happen for me with "This is Paradise" as well. I try to read books on places I'm visiting before I go but I find that reading them after is enriching as well. I recognize so much more in what I'm reading.
Whether you've been to Hawaii or not, if the book appeals to you, comment below and let's see if you wind up with a free book.
I'll keep the "contest" open until Sept. 30.
(Apologies once again to boldlygosolo readers around the world – the publisher has asked that I limit the winner to someone who lives in the U.S. or Canada.)
Photos: Ellen Perlman. 1. Someone help me with this sport. It's not hang gliding. It's not parasailing. And it's not skydiving. It's ________. What?? (Mahalo, in advance.)
2. Waikiki – the south side of Honolulu, Hawaii. Spot the pink hotel in the center – the Royal Hawaiian.
Boldly Go Solo 
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