Legends of Ma-ui—a demi god of Polynesia, and of his mother Hina

"Legends of Ma-ui—a demi god of Polynesia, and of his mother Hina" by W. D. Westervelt is a compilation of early 20th-century myths that recounts the amazing deeds of the demi-god Maui and his mother, Hina. The book examines ideas of creation, change, and the origins of the Hawaiian Islands' culture through a number of interwoven stories which accentuate Maui's magical nature, his connection to the environment, and his interactions with gods. The book opens by introducing Maui, providing background information on his significance in Polynesian mythology and his family, including his unusually named brothers. The book highlights the special traits and talents that distinguish Maui from his siblings as it lays the foundation for a thorough investigation of Maui's persona as both a prankster and a hero, setting the scene for a variety of adventures that are included in the collection, as well as stories about Maui pulling up islands, capturing the sun, and trying to find the secret of fire.