The Whale Rider by Witi Ihimaera

The Whale Rider by Witi Ihimaera

I can't believe it's taken me so long to get around to reading this book. It's wonderful!
I read it over lunch time today.

Set in Whangara, New Zealand and told by Rawiri, it's the story of Kahu, the Maori girl destined to become the next whale rider. Interweaving the whale story, Maori legends, and family life, this is an enchanting book.

Read as part of the 80 books around the world and Orbis Terrarum challenges.
Finished 15/05/08

The Rape of Sita - Lindsey Collen

The Rape of Sita by Lindsey Collen

Set in Mauritius, this is the story of Sita's remembering ...
It is beautifully written, enchantingly told ...despite its harrowing and tragic tale. It is also a story of hope, of courage and of survival.

A recommende read for all women and men.

Independent on Sunday review:
‘A tragic and heroic tale . . . shot through with lyricism’

Finished 1/5/08
Part of 80 books around the world challenge and Orbis Terrarum Challenge

Orbis Terrarum Challenge

Another book reading challenge - The Orbis Terrarum Challenge
see website here


- The Orbis Terrarum Challenge begins April 1 2008 Through December 20th 2008.
- For the challenge each reader is to choose 9 books (for the 9 months).
-Each book must be by an author from a different nation in our world.

My 9 books are (I think):

1. The Rape of Sita - Lindsey Collen (Mauritius) 1/5/08
2. The Whale Rider - Witi Ihimaera (New Zealand) 15/05/08
3. Katha: Short Stories by Indian Women (India)
4. Shanghai Baby - Wei Hui (China)
5. War & Peace - Leo Tolstoy (Russia)
6. Eveline - Frances Burney (UK)
7. The Princesse De Cleves - Madame De La Fayette (France)
8. Faust - Goethe (Germany)
9. Divine Comedy - Dante (Italy)