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Lost Kingdom

415 pages, 2013

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999 books
Takeaways
Description

Once Polynesians landed in an unspoiled archipelago, they were able to live in solitude without being disturbed by the rest of the world for generations. However, in 1778, Captain Cook showed up, which led to their solitude being destroyed. The Lost Kingdom tells a tale about the Hawaiian Kingdom, which was home to a group of unforgettable characters. Liliuokalani, who was born during this time, witnessed the island's almost-total economic development. 

As the story unfolds, the Sugar Kings—the richest and most powerful white people on the island—take over. Their main business is growing sugarcane plantations and using slave labor to operate them. However, as society grows and changes over time, people are forced to confront one another and make choices that can have a huge impact on their lives.

The Power of Greed

In Lost Kingdom, Julia Flynn Siler explores the destructive power of greed. The book shows how the desire for wealth and power led to the downfall of the Hawaiian monarchy. It's a reminder to check our own desires and ensure they don't lead us down a destructive path.

The Importance of Cultural Preservation

Lost Kingdom is a stark reminder of the importance of preserving one's culture. The Hawaiian culture was nearly wiped out due to the influence of outsiders. This book encourages us to respect and preserve our own cultures and those of others.

The Impact of Colonialism

Siler's book gives us a deep look into the effects of colonialism on indigenous people. The Hawaiian Kingdom was overthrown and its people were stripped of their rights and culture. It's a call to acknowledge and learn from the past mistakes of colonialism.

The Strength of Women

Lost Kingdom highlights the strength and resilience of women. Queen Lili'uokalani, the last reigning monarch of Hawaii, fought tirelessly for her people and her kingdom. Her story can inspire us to stand up for what we believe in, even in the face of adversity.

The Consequences of Ignorance

The book shows how ignorance of other cultures can lead to devastating consequences. The outsiders who overthrew the Hawaiian Kingdom did not understand or respect the local culture. This is a wake-up call for us to educate ourselves about other cultures and respect their customs and traditions.

Recommendations

1
Janet Mock

Janet Mock

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