The Whale Rider
Maori. The Whale Rider. From the time of her birth, Kahu is destined to become the leader of her tribe in the East Coast village of Whangara. But her grandfather, Koro Apirana, is caught up with the problems facing the tribe. He refuses to accept that a girl could take over from him as chief. Then a pod of whales beach themselves at Whangara. Kahu has to act if she is to save them and her people.
22 ambassadors recommend the one book to read before visiting their country
H.E. Tim Groser recommends Witi Ihimaera's 1987 book [i]The Whale Rider[/i], which tells the story of Kahu, who develops the ability to communicate with whales, echoing those of the ancient Whale Rider, after whom she was named.
