Hawaiian Legends Of Volcanoes: William D. Westervelt

Pele, the volcano Goddess of ancient Hawai'i, is still openly revered and worshipped in the islands. Her personification has evolved from a rich heritage of mythology and lore of her exploits introduced to the Western world by W.D. Westervelt. First published in 1916, there are also adventurous tales of Pele's sister Hi'iaka with mortals such as the handsome chiefs Kahawaii and Lohiau and the love affair with the half-man, half-pig demigod Kamapua'a. The powerful conflicts between Pele and Poliahu, the snow goddess, and Hi'iaka and the many mo'o (supernatural water creatures) are recounted with great dramatic suspense. Cover art by Brian Ibaan.