Witi Ihimaera
Witi Ihimaera is a renowned New Zealand author, best known for his works that explore Maori culture and heritage. He is the first Maori writer to publish both a novel and a short story collection. His notable works include 'The Whale Rider' and 'Bulibasha: King of the Gypsies'.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
-
1. The Whale Rider
The story revolves around Kahu, a young Maori girl who is determined to prove her worth and fulfill her destiny despite the traditional gender roles of her community. Her great-grandfather, Koro Apirana, is the chief of their tribe and believes that leadership should be passed down to a male heir. However, Kahu's deep connection with the whales and her unwavering spirit challenge these long-held beliefs, ultimately demonstrating that true leadership and wisdom transcend gender. Through her journey, the novel explores themes of cultural heritage, family, and the power of perseverance.
The 7623rd Greatest Book of All Time