Frisbie, Robert Dean. The Book of Puka-Puka. New York: The Century Co., 1928.
Reason read: National Geographic Travel Month
Puka-Puka is a Polynesian atoll off the coast of New Zealand. Robert Dean Frisbie, originally born in Cleveland, Ohio moved to Puka-Puka for his health and to get away from civilization. He became a trader, married a native, had several children and even died in the Cook Islands. His was one of the earliest accounts of Pacific island life. It’s full of adventure, humor and culture. A great read!
Quote I liked, “He gave me a priceless recipe for raisin wine which I will whisper to the thirsty reader in due time” (p 12).
Author fact: Frisbie died in the Cook Islands, on Avatiu.
Book trivia: The Book of Puka-Puka was illustrated by Mahlon Blaine.
Nancy said: Frisbie’s is a “classic account” of island life.
BookLust Twist: from Book Lust in the chapter called “Islands, Desert and Otherwise” (p 128).
~*LunaSea*~ 