The Last Princess : The Story of Princess Ka'iulani of Hawai'i

Whimsically illustrated in a folk-art style, this real-life fairy tale will disappoint many children with its relentlessly tragic narrative. Telling of the life of Princess Ka’iulani, this story is meticulously researched and references a number of primary sources while still maintaining an evocative atmosphere of intimacy and immediacy. The majority of the story follows the death-bed prophecy of Ka’iulani’s mother, who proclaimed, “You will go far away from your land and your people and be gone a very long time. You will never marry and you will never rule Hawai’i.”

Text-heavy but with beautiful illustrations, the story includes many native Hawaiian words and draws heavily on fairy tale imagery and pacing. However, the few show more moments of brightness cannot obscure the largely depressing and fatalistic character of the narrative. Because of its verbosity, kids might find the story boring. Recommended with reservations for students in 1-3 grade. show less

This book tells a part of Hawaiian history during the time that Americans were trying to annex the islands. What is seen to the Americans as a victory, is seen as a tragedy to the Hawaiians. It is a story of resilience and love for one's native culture, I highly recommend this book!

This is a story of a Hawaiian princess whose life did not follow the average course of one whom is considered royalty. The story is well written but it seems to be lacking some detail and some information that could possibly enhance the history of her life. The text is somewhat bias and leans toward a political stance. It is empowering for young women but it also has some harsh realities of life interjected throughout the book.

This is a biography about the Princes Ka'Iulani who was the last princess of Hawaii. It talks about the last days of Hawaiian monarchy and the american invasion of the government system. The author does a great job of telling the story of a very hard piece of American history.

The last princess was an unfortunate story of the Hawaiian noble, Ka'lulani. Ka'lulani's mother died at a fairly young age and before she died, she told her daughter, Ka'lulani that she will never marry. Her mother also told her that she will end up going to a land that is indeed very far from her people which came true. Princess Ka'lulani went on a ship from Hawaii to New York and from New York to England. This is where she went to school with the rich girls from Britain. Upon hearing the annexation of her country, Princess Ka'lulani wants to help her people and prevent America annexing over the country but alas Ka'lulani was dead before America took over.One day on a rainy day, she carelessly let her hair go loose from her hair tie, show more and wore light clothing that caused her to get a fever. After each day it became worse. Then after that she died. She is till widely known today for her political stance on her people and her beauty. show less

This book is a true story of a Hawaiian Princess. Her life is portrayed to be much like a fairy tale. Unfortunately it has a very tragic ending and could be devastating for young readers.

1875 birth of a princess, illustrations beautifully support story.