MAUI-FULL-OF-TRICKS: A Legend of Old Hawaii

by Vivian L. Thompson ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 21, 1970

Unlike the ingenious Tricksters and Riddlers peopling Mrs. Thompson's Hawaiian Legends (1969, p. 1201, J-485), Maui-full-of-tricks/Maui-last-born (to Hina), foster son of the gods, is a disappointing protagonist. Historically he's not a hero, but he lacks here even the impish dimension of folk antihero: serving neither good nor evil, just his own private whim, Maui is impudent, arrogant, rash, and devoid of distinguishing wit. This is a composite weave of his legendary misadventures following his exile from above; and since he's no more welcomed by his mortal brothers after he defies all manner of beings (Wind, Sun, Eight Warts, Eight-Eyed One), it seems only right that Maul lose his last and ""greatest"" battle -- with Death -- unmourned.

Pub Date: Sept. 21, 1970

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Golden Gate

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 1, 1970

Categories: NONFICTION