Description
Book SynopsisIn a Southern land, where the veil of time and space has worn thin, twins with otherworldly ways are born to a stone carver and his wife. As they grow into themselves, the landscape and its histories will rise up to meet them and change their whānau forever. Cave art leaps from walls, pounamu birds sing, legends become reality, and history becomes the present in this verse novel by Ruby Solly (Waitaha, Kāti Māmoe, Kāi Tahu). The Artist brings to life the histories of our great Southern iwi through the whakapapa of its characters and the rich world they and their ancestors call their tūrakawaewae—their place to stand, their place to sing.
Trade Review“For readers with an interest in innovative poetry -- in New Zealand literature, Indigenous literature, Maori literature -- this book is significant and needed. The Artist is an ahuru mowai, a shelter made from poetry, and is to be celebrated for its craft and heart, and for its whakapapa.” - Robert Sullivan,
Aotearoa New Zealand Review of Books“A mesmerising verse novel that weaves together the history and traditions of Southern iwi. Solly's evocative storytelling brings to life cave art, pounamu birds, and legendary tales. This enchanting book immerses readers in a rich cultural tapestry, celebrating the whakapapa and heritage of its characters.” -
Avenues Magazine“Deeply evocative -- cave art leaps from walls, pounamu birds sing, legends become reality, and history becomes the present.” - Neil Johnstone, Wellington City Libraries
