This is a beautiful book full of aroha and insight. It is described as "maori wisdom for a connected life in harmony with our planet"
Discover traditional Maori philosophy through 52 whakatauki – simple, powerful life lessons, one for every week. Each one is retold by respected Maori psychiatrist Dr Hinemoa Elder to show how we can live a less stressful daily life, with more contentment and kindness for each other and the planet.
"Ahakoa whati te manga, e takoto ana ano te kohiwi - although the branch is broken off the trunk remains. Dr Elder explains this as being 'misfortunes will not undermine an individual or group if the foundations are strong.'
She says we need stories – the traditional vehicle of indigenous wisdom, encompassing cause-and-effect, empathy and explanation – to make us care.
This book was the top-selling New Zealand non-fiction title of 2021. It is a 240-page hardback book and makes a lovely gift.