How the Book Came Together

The coconut wireless has been very active throughout the writing of this book. I was in constant communication with my interviewees.  First it was to set up interview times and dates.  After that it was to ask for clarification on a statement, correction on a date or a fact, requests that they review transcripts and chapters for accuracy.  The level of participation from all involved has been exceptionally high. 

I made an effort to cover a range of ethnicities, but never plotted how many were in any profession, never thought how many women and how many men, or questioned why a certain person had been brought into my orbit.

Everyone interviewed seemed delighted to have their life story recorded and transcribed for them.  Many said that it had saved them writing their own books. Others said this would be a springboard for the book their kids have wanted them to write.  Some had already written their own books but actively participated in my project nonetheless and I am the richer for it.

This is not a book recording ALL the Voices of Hawai`i. I did not set out with a plan on whom I was going to interview. It grew organically as I followed leads given to me by others.

I have been exceedingly careful in this collection to have the support and approval of my interviewees. I did not take comments out of context or superimpose my opinions onto others.  I used my discretion on chapter titles and how I paired topics in chapters. There were occasions when two parties gave opposite opinions on the same topic.  There is room at the table for all opinions and so I included both opinions.