“Sea of Opportunity: The Japanese Pioneers of the Fishing Industry in Hawaii,” by Manako Ogawa (University of Hawaii Press, $39): “Sea of Opportunity” provides a fascinating portrayal of Japanese fishermen as a floating, nomadic culture that followed schools of fish. Ogawa, a professor in Kyoto, received her doctorate in American studies at the University of Hawaii. Of her book, she writes, “Through decentering and recentering the colors and patterns of the land-based fabric, this study attempts to reconstruct Japanese lives from the sea while challenging the dominant analysis of Japanese in Hawaii, which is confined primarily within the framework of the ‘cane culture.’”

“From King Cane to the Last Sugar Mill: Agricultural Technology and the Making of Hawaii’s Premier Crop,” by C. Allan Jones and Robert V. Osgood (University of Hawaii Press, $45): Both a scholarly treatment and an enjoyable read, “From King Cane” looks at the social, economic and political challenges faced by the sugar industry in Hawaii. In his foreword, Paul Moore of the Hawaii Agricultural Research Center notes that authors Jones and Osgood obtained access to former industry workers as well as important archival materials — circumstances that allowed them to impart “rare personal touches” to their book. Using extensive research and careful analysis, the authors attempt to bring balance and objectivity to the subject of sugar in Hawaii.

“Abundance and Resilience: Farming and Foraging in Ancient Kauai,” edited by Julie S. Field and Michael W. Graves (University of Hawaii Press, $65): Out of this collection of essays on the archaeological site at Nualolo Kai, in the Na Pali district on Kauai, emerges a vivid rendering of the Hawaiian communities that resided there for centuries. Editors Field and Graves characterize the Nualolo Kai site as providing “an unparalleled view of historical culture in Hawaii and … the complex relationships between native fauna and human settlement.” Among related subjects covered are ancient Hawaiian concepts and practices of land stewardship.

“Why Smart Men Do the Same Dumb Things,” by Rosalie K. Tatsuguchi (Watermark Publishing, $16.95): A sequel to “Why Smart People Do the Same Dumb Things,” Tatsuguchi’s book attempts to help men recognize the “bushido” (way of the warrior) in their behavior and thinking. Part Socratic method and part Buddhist instruction, “Why Smart Men” explains how being a “stern samurai” in times of peace is not only harmful to intimate relationships, but is antithetical to the skillful communication that leads to professional success. Tatsuguchi, a practicing psychologist in Hawaii for more than 30 years, directs her book at men of all ages — and the women close to them.

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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. Written by Pat Matsueda, special to the Star-Advertiser. For more information, email mpennybacker@staradvertiser.com or call 529-4772.