Lien Apinam

Lien Apinam is a legendary story based on an actual event from Lukunor, Chuuk, in Micronesia. The story teaches the important values and roles that women, men, and children have in their own survival. Lien Apinam, the protagonist, is a girl who channels the spirit of her ancestry to courageously stand in opposition to cultural protocol in order to save her island peoples from the atrocities of invasion and warfare. Her empowering and bold decision making allows readers to learn the power of speaking and standing up for what is right, even in the face of danger and cultural bias. This is originally a Chuukese story that has been translated into English for this book edition. juvenile nonfiction, folk tale, legends & mythology, Oceania, Micronesia, Chuuk target age: 6-9 years old _____ Author Innocenta Sound-Kikku, fondly referred to as Mama Inno, is an experienced community health navigator for the Chuukese in Hawaiʻi. She is the founder and coordinator of Pacific Voices, a cultural arts and literacy program with Kokua Kalihi Valley’s (KKV) Youth Services. She is also the founder of KKV’s NieiRek Micronesian women empowerment program.  Illustrator Lissette Yamase is a self-taught charcoal artist who creates art in the hopes of preserving and celebrating the profound stories, cultures, and values of the islands she calls home. Lissette was born on the island of Palau and was raised on the islands of Saipan, Chuuk, and Pohnpei. _____ hardcover   |   32 pages   |   12" x 9"   |   color