
Interview with Native Hawaiian Author Kealani Netane
If you recognize Native Hawaiian/Sāmoan writer Kealani Netane’s name, you’re probably a fan of her popular bookstagram, Little Pasifika Readers. Or you might you recognize her from her thoughtful blog posts at Pacific Islanders in Publishing. Now add children’s book author to her list of professional accomplishments. Her wonderful debut picture book, TALA LEARNS TO SIVA (Scholastic, 2024) is the sweetest story of a child’s desire to dance the traditional Sāmoan taualuga just as like graceful aunt. Through engaging text and beautiful illustrations by award-winning illustrator Dung Ho, young readers learn, like Tala, that they can do anything with practice and patience. We are thrilled to talk story with Kealani today.