The Kāneʻohe Kid

The Kāneʻohe Kid

Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is be yourself.

Hugh Murray couldn't have felt more out of place. The year is 1937, the Great Depression is in full force, and 11-year-old Hugh has been uprooted from his comfortable life in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to a tropical island on the other side of the Pacific Ocean. With his brand-new shoes already causing him trouble, Hugh knows he's in for a rough time. But little does he know, this island has plans for him.

As the only haole (white) kid at the local school, Hugh faces challenges at every turn. A bully named Willy and a pidgin dialect he can barely understand leave him feeling like an outsider. But as he begins to explore the island, he discovers unexpected friendships that change his entire perspective.

Guided by the wise and kind Braddah Mike, Hugh learns that courage and compassion can bridge any cultural divide. And with the help of his Filipino neighbor Danny, he discovers the true meaning of friendship. As he dives into the island's culture, night fishing, new foods, and a mysterious Hawaiian owl, all hint that there may be a bigger reason for his journey than he ever imagined.

Immersed in the sights, sounds, and flavors of pre-war Hawaii, "The Kāneʻohe Kid" is a heartwarming tale of belonging and acceptance. Fans of adventure, history, and heartwarming friendships will be captivated by this story. For readers who loved "Island of the Blue Dolphins" or "Holes," "The Kāneʻohe Kid" is a must-read. Grab your copy now and get lost in the beauty and magic of Hawaii.

Melissa Miyoko Scott writes clean, wholesome stories for warrior-hearted families. Raised in Hawai’i, Melissa crafts narratives that echo eternity. When not writing, Melissa collects hobbies and boba stamp cards, wrangles backyard chickens, and adventures through life with her husband and five busy kids. Melissa holds a Bachelor of Biblical Studies, writes monthly articles for her state homeschool organization, and loves helping families raise warriors, one page at a time. Connect with her via her newsletter or bookstagram at melissamiyokoscott.com

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About the Book

In 1937, pale-skinned Hugh Murray trades the sooty streets of Pittsburgh for the emerald valleys of Kāne’ohe, Hawaiʻi. Desperate to fit in at his new school, Hugh faces relentless bullying and struggles to understand the rich tapestry of Hawaiian and Asian cultures surrounding him. When a dangerous challenge and a catastrophic storm force Hugh to choose between proving himself and staying true to his values, he discovers that real courage isn’t about changing who you are but about embracing where you belong.

A Fish Out of Water in Paradise
At Kāne’ohe School, Hugh faces relentless teasing and bullying from local kids, especially Willy Kahapea, the toughest boy in school. Desperate to belong, Hugh tries everything to transform himself into a “local kid.” He practices pidgin English, learns to fish and dive, and studies Hawaiian customs from his neighbors. But the harder he tries to change who he is, the more trouble he finds.

Based on True Events
Set against the backdrop of pre-World War II Hawaiʻi, The Kāne’ohe Kid brings to life a remarkable true story of one boy’s journey from outsider to hero. Rich with authentic details of 1930s island life, including Hawaiian language and customs, local foods, and the diverse cultures that made Hawaiʻi a true melting pot, this middle-grade historical fiction novel captures a pivotal moment in Hawaiian and American history, all from the perspectice of an eleven year old boy and his unexpected group of faithful friends.

Perfect for Readers Who Love:

  • Historical fiction set in Hawaiʻi
  • Coming-of-age stories about belonging and identity
  • Adventure tales featuring the ocean and survival
  • Multi-cultural stories celebrating diversity
  • Heartwarming family and friendship narratives
  • True stories of courage and heroism
  • Middle-grade books with authentic historical details
  • Stories about overcoming bullying through understanding

Join Hugh Murray on an unforgettable journey that proves courage comes in all colors, friendship knows no boundaries, and sometimes the bravest thing you can do is simply be yourself.

Ideal for readers ages 8-12 and anyone who loves powerful stories of adventure, cultural discovery, and personal growth set in historic Hawaiʻi.

Details
Author: Melissa Miyoko Scott
Tags: Five Arrows Press Book, Recommended Books
ASIN: B0H144KDFH
ISBN: 9798990151345
List Price: 15.49
eBook Price: 2.99
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