Page Turners

“Dubious Gastronomy: The Cultural Politics of Eating Asian in the USA,” by Robert Ji-Song Ku (University of Hawai‘i Press, $42): In this engaging and informative read, Ku, who grew up in Hawaii and is now an Asian-American studies professor in New York, examines topics such as the authenticity and reputation of cuisine that are considered Asian in America, focusing on foods like the Cali­for­nia roll, Spam and Chinese takeout.

“Summer in Italy,” by Joe Chiba (Oak Tree Press, $15.95): A novel based on the real-life experience of Hawaii resident Chiba, who in 2008 was reunited with long-lost relatives. The book is a travelogue of sorts as his protagonist, prompted by a mysterious letter from his deceased father, goes to Italy in search of lost family and experiences the charms of foreign travel, including meeting an attractive woman.

“The Grand Manner of Matson,” by Duncan O’Brien (Pier 10 Media, $95): The writer follows up “The White Ships” with this limited-edition picture book on Matson’s passenger ships. It’s loaded with photos of the Matson ocean liners and the celebrities they carried around the South Pacific. There are lots of fun historical tidbits, like how the SS Malolo was severely damaged during testing but went to become a film set for a Harold Lloyd film.

“Beyond Fear: If You Must Think It; You Will Die,” by Martin Dupont (self-published, $31): This Cold War-era novel tells the story of Mac Deverreaux, an all-American fighter pilot who takes aim at the Viet Cong as well as the latest Soviet war toy while leaving beautiful women in his wake. The writer, a Maui native and former Air Force pilot, tells his story in short bursts that originated as Facebook posts.

“Keka‘a: The Making and Saving of North Beach West Maui,” by Sydney Lehua Iaukea (University of Hawai‘i Press, $20): The author, a Maui native and Hawaiian studies teacher, discusses in blunt terms the history of the North Beach/West Maui area from the early days of the Hawaiian monarchy through the plantation era to modern times. She provides a blow-by-blow account of the machinations behind the development of the resort area.

“The Old People,” by A.J. Perry (Thames River Press, $18.95): Hawaii writer Perry’s second book uses the story of a group of island people struggling to tie a knot as a metaphor to examine themes of cultural displacement and the ephemeral nature of life. Simple in its storytelling language and structure, the story reads like a fable.

Page Turners highlights books by Hawaii authors and books about Hawaii or of interest to Hawaii readers. To submit a book for consideration, send a copy and information to Features Department, 500 Ala Moana Blvd. Suite 7-210, Honolulu, HI 96813. For more information, email features@staradvertiser.com.