Maui writer captures importance of poi in new children’s book

“This is the poi for our ‘ohana’s lu‘au.”

So begins the wonderful new children’s book “‘Ohana Means Family” (Neal Porter Books, $18.99), by Maui journalist and freelance writer Ilima Loomis. Borrowing the captivating rhythm and cumulative storytelling style of the classic “The House That Jack Built,” Loomis shares the tale of a Hawaiian family as they farm taro for poi in preparation for a traditional celebration:

“These are the hands, so wise and old, that reach through the water, clear and cold, into the mud, to pick the taro, to make the poi, for our ‘ohana’s lu‘au.”

The charming hardcover book is elevated by the vivid watercolor illustrations of Kenard Pak, an award-winning illustrator and animator who has worked for DreamWorks, Disney and other media companies.

While contributing to such publications as National Geographic Traveler, Science and Discover, the Hawaii-born Loomis also authored the children’s books “Ka‘imi’s First Round-Up” and “Eclipse Chaser” and has written for student-oriented publications.

“I love the challenge of writing for kids and figuring out the puzzle of how to say everything I want to say in language that is simple, spare and holds their attention,” she told the Star-Advertiser.

And poi’s been on her mind for a long time.

“It’s such an important part of Hawaii’s culture that’s worthy of celebrating, but not a lot of people outside of the islands really know what it is,” Loomis said. “Maybe more important, I thought that poi is the perfect example of how we all are connected with the land, the environment and each other through food. That’s a universal idea that kids everywhere can understand.”