Aug. 19, 2025

Kamehameha Schools Preschools proudly launches the Meʻe Reader Series, with a new trio of early reader books that introduce young keiki to the extraordinary lives of Hawaiian meʻe. Designed to strengthen early literacy skills while building Hawaiian identity from an early age, the books celebrate the radical power of our homegrown Hawaiian heroes, their outstanding talents, their power to advocate for and elevate Hawaiian culture, and their alakaʻi lawelawe ʻana, leading with compassion and aloha for their people.

The inaugural titles — “Princess Ruth As Lovely As Can Be”, “Princess Ruth’s Kaikaina” and “The Lei Hulu Maker” — shine a spotlight on Princess Ruth Keʻelikōlani, a fearless aliʻi and fierce protector of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi and Hawaiian culture. Weaving together literacy and ʻike Hawaiʻi, the series helps keiki connect with the moʻolelo of our meʻe, inspiring pride, resilience and a commitment to carry that legacy forward.

“Through these books, our keiki meet the meʻe who came before them, learn about their lives, appreciate their courage, and draw strength from their leadership,” said KSP Interim Poʻo Kula Nicole Souza. “Moʻolelo has the power to keep their stories alive and ignite in our keiki the confidence to carry that legacy forward.”

Local author Gail Omoto collaborated with KSP’s instructional team Kalaʻikū Wong, Alison Makanui-Lopes, Edwin Yonamine, as well as Poʻo Kumu Darlene Pang and Interim Poʻo Kula  Nicole Souza. Together, they embarked on a year-long editorial process, ensuring each word and illustration supported young learners and aligned with E Ola! and our Hawaiian culture-based education framework. Cultural authenticity was further strengthened through the lens of historian Nanea Armstrong-Wassel, who offered thoughtful insights to ensure the books reflect historical accuracy and a Hawaiian worldview.

“The Meʻe Reader Series was created in direct response to our kumu, who shared a strong desire for more age-appropriate learning resources on meʻe,” said Kalaʻikū Wong, Interim Hope Poʻo Kula. “These books uplift the stories of Hawaiian heroes and inspire a deeper connection to ʻike kūpuna.”

The books are part of a broader thematic unit celebrating Keʻelikōlani and her legacy. A suite of engaging activities was created to bring the stories of Princess Ruth to life. A special hula, “Luka Keʻelikōlani”, choreographed by ʻIʻini McDonald and Kūlia Pahia, was taught to kumu at the KSP all staff gathering on July 25, 2025. This hula will be brought into all 89 classrooms to reach more than 1,700 haumāna. Additionally, puzzles and lacing activities created by KSP’s Ronnette Ojeda provide hands-on tools for preschool learning centers.

“Princess Ruth As Lovely As Can Be” offers a tender portrait of Keʻelikōlani’s spirit and character, helping children see beauty not just in appearance, but in strength, service and cultural pride. “Princess Ruth’s Kaikaina” highlights the sisterly relationship between Keʻelikōlani and Ke Aliʻi Bernice Pauahi Bishop, offering a gentle entry point for keiki to understand legacy, love and leadership. 

Inspiration for “The Lei Hulu Maker” was found on a huakaʻi to the Bishop Museum. Among Keʻelikōlani’s treasures was a lei hulu from 1889. The feathers were lovingly woven into a lei by Keʻelikōlani herself. The lei hulu is a perfect example of ‘ōiwi excellence, carrying the patience, skill and mana of generations. The series draws on this metaphor, reminding young readers that our moʻolelo are valuable, and that the lives of our ancestors — especially strong women like Ruth Keʻelikōlani — continue to guide, shape and impact our lives today.

Author Gail Omoto expressed her mahalo: “Princess Ruth Keʻelikōlani, thank you for your strength, spirit of perseverance, love of Hawaiian language and continuation of cultural practices and for being a truly amazing woman. You are our meʻe.”

As kumu begin sharing these moʻolelo in the classroom in this new school year, the Meʻe Reader Series stands as a shining example of what is possible when we uplift ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, moʻolelo Hawaiʻi and keiki enrichment activities in one powerful package. Mahalo to all who helped bring this collection to life.