Local book roundup

"A Common Virtue: A Novel," by James A. Hawkins (Naval Institute Press, $29.95)

Local author James A. Hawkins tells the tale of a Marine’s Marine in this Vietnam War-era novel.

Protagonist Paul Jackson constantly is distinguishing himself under perilous circumstances, but the overall plot is only a vehicle for its real viscera: the intimate and precise details of Marine life, protocol and rank relationships.

A heightened attention to detail is the key to survival in the unforgiving Southeast Asian jungles, and Hawkins peppers his narrative with descriptions of weapons, gear, tactics, battlefield tips and military life. The novel works best when readers are transplanted into the heart of enemy territory, where the tiniest deviation from procedure could very well mean your life — or worse.

The language is often vulgar and the attitudes gung-ho, but the situations were real and, through drawing upon his own experience, Hawkins captures the nuances of military life while trying to bring some order and understanding to the chaos so many Marines experienced in Vietnam.

"Atomic Dreams at the Red Tiki Lounge," by S.P. Grogan (Addison & Highsmith, $19.95)

A whimsical fantasy illustrated with original art by Brad "Tiki Shark" Parker, S.P. Grogan’s new novel patches together Hawaii historical figures, places and events, along with drink recipes, in a supernatural adventure.

Cmdr. Hunter Hopewell, a Pacific World War II hero, sustains a traumatic brain injury during a mission. Later, as a civilian private investigator in Hono­lulu, he also suffers debilitating headaches and paralysis, seeking relief through drink and female companionship at the popular Red Tiki Lounge.

When the bar’s lucky red tiki is stolen, Hunter and a hodgepodge of supporting characters work together to find the artifact and steal an atomic bomb to help save the world. Grogan’s tale includes the goddess Pele, portraying her as a sensual muse who names Hunter as her warrior champion and bears his child, making him the father of a demigod. 

These fantastical interpretations of Hawaiian mythology should be taken with many grains of salt, preferably lining the rim of a tropical-themed cocktail glass.

"A Half Century of Rugby," Hawaii Harlequins Rugby Football Club (Hawaii Harlequins R.F.C., $25)

The Hawaii Harlequins Rugby Football Club was formed in 1964. This book, celebrating the club’s 50th anniversary, wraps up a history of the Hawaii Harlequins as told through a collection of firsthand accounts by past and current members and associates.

The tales recount not only tough matches and journeys, but are full of fun, hard-hitting, hard-partying times. For instance, there was the time members drank an airline flight out of beer, the game in which players pulled their pants down and chased the other team, and the call to a radio show impersonating a tree trimmer who was asking for legal advice.

Scattered throughout are a wealth of primary sources ranging from old photographs and programs to original printed letters that help bring these anecdotes to life.

"A Half Century of Rugby" provides a snapshot of and context for a specific niche in Hawaii recreational life. Rugby is an internationally diverse sport; it only makes sense that it should feel right at home in Hawaii.

Alex Alba is an editor at hawaiibook blog.com.