Paku Manu Ariki Whakatakapokai

A bold and multi-layered picture book about self-determination narrated by a young boy full of ideas and questions about growing up, belonging, spirituality, culture, whanau, tupuna, atua, and who is the boss.

“My name is Paku Manu Ariki Whakatakapokai.

You can call me Paku Manu Ariki Whakatakapokai.”

Paku Manu Ariki talks directly to the reader, drawing on the stories that spin around him—his father’s matauranga, his mother’s politics, his many pet birds, and his best friend who is taller, even though he’s younger.

The book is born from the experience of growing up in a strong Maori whanau in a country and wider world that offers a conflicting version of what is right and of value.

Paku Manu Ariki is trying to understand his role in his family, community and the larger world. His preoccupation is who is the boss—his nanna at the marae, his older siblings, or any number of atua? His steadfast dad, his Pakeha mum, the “leader of the free world”, or Paku Manu Ariki himself? Paku Manu Ariki bumps up against authority, trying to reconcile the kind and just rules of nanna and the unjust power of leaders he sees every day on the TV.

Thoughtful, funny and confronting, Paku Manu Ariki Whakatakapokai is about the hustle for belonging, and our place in the epic spiral of space, time and culture.

Tokerau Brown’s colourful and powerful contemporary Maori-Pasifika gothic illustrative style adds a preteen sensibility and spirit drawn from comics.

With themes of identity and belonging, this book is a powerful tool for classroom discussion. Exploring contemporary issues, critical thinking and Maori–Pakeha relations, this book has a wide age readership for both school and adult audiences.

Michaela Keeble has previously published poetry and short fiction. This book is based on writing and conversation with her son Kerehi Grace (Ngati Toa Rangatira, Ngati Porou).

Tokerau Brown is a Rarotongan/Cook Islands Maori artist, multimedia improvisor and musician, known for his Maori Pasifika Goth group art exhibitions and solo music project “Big Fat Raro”.

Praise for Paku Manu Ariki Whakatakapokai

“fresh, full of humour, important questions, and honesty." Volume Books

"a captivating journey that not only celebrates Maori culture, but also speaks to the broader theme of self-discovery and the importance of finding one’s role in the intricate web of family, community, and the world at large." The Sapling

"it feels real and it feels important. The book is special and is a book to share." NZ Poetry Box

“The essential local kids’ book of 2023.” Good Books

“Colour and energy burst from the page.” NZ Booklovers

"a delightful insight into a bright young Maori mind operating in top gear." The Source, Magpies