During a school field trip to ‘Iolani Palace, Leilani learns about King Kalākaua and Queen Kapi‘olani’s enduring legacy of support for the Hawaiian people. Leilani is filled with gratitude. After falling asleep that night, she wakes to find herself back in old Hawai‘i with Queen Kap‘iolani who takes her on a short tour of Honolulu. Leilani gains a greater appreciation for the way Hawai‘i was and still is today due to the King and Queen’s contributions, protections, and stewardship. Leilani Blessed and Grateful is Hawai‘i’s 2022 selection for the Library of Congress’ Great Reads from Great Places program.

 

Greg Bowman received his BA in Social Science Secondary Education from Salisbury State College and MA in Recreation Administration from the University of Maryland. A U.S. Army veteran, he has been a lifelong educator, coach, and camp administrator for nearly fifty years. Currently, Greg is a World Religions teacher at ‘Iolani School.

Alan Suemori received his BA in English and History from Columbia University and his MA in Education from the University of Hawai‘i. He co-authored “Nana I Na Loea Hula,” a compilation of traditional hula resources. Alan has taught English and History at ‘Iolani School for the past twenty-nine years