Best Fiji History Books of 2025

If you're looking to expand your knowledge of Norse mythology, "Norse Mythology: The Complete Guide" is a great resource. This book is a two-in-one package that covers everything from the origins and traditions of Nordic paganism to the secrets of Ragnarok and Viking battles. It also delves into the story of Asatru, the values of Nordic paganism, and mythological creatures in Norse paganism. The book is not just a storybook but a comprehensive manual that will take your knowledge of Norse mythology to another level. Overall, this book is an excellent addition to any history enthusiast's collection.

Uncovering Celtic Mythology is a comprehensive beginner's guide that explores the world of Celtic myths, folklore, and legends. The book covers the origins of the Celtic people, their beliefs, and symbols. It also delves into Irish and Welsh mythologies, character profiles of mythical heroes, gods, and goddesses, and a curated collection of folktales. The book provides an excellent introduction to the subject matter that is accessible and engaging for readers of all levels of familiarity with Celtic mythology. Overall, this book is a great resource for anyone interested in learning more about Celtic mythology and its enduring influence on modern culture.

This book, Gender, Violence and Criminal Justice in the Colonial Pacific, sheds light on the introduction of British and French colonial criminal justice in the Pacific Islands during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Focusing on cases of sexual violence in Fiji, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu/New Hebrides, the author foregrounds the experiences of Indigenous Islanders and indentured laborers in the colonial court system. The book explores the intersections of legal pluralism and local pragmatism across British and French colonialization in the Pacific. Overall, the book provides a unique perspective on the contested introduction of colonial criminal justice in the Pacific Islands.

This book tells the story of Enele Ma`afu, a Tongan prince who became the first Tui Lau of Fiji. Ma`afu skillfully used his kinship links to gain power in Fiji and established the Tovata ko Lau union. He challenged Cakobau for the mastery of Fiji and served as Viceroy during the Kingdom of Fiji. However, he was ultimately forced to accede to the wishes of Fiji’s other great chiefs in offering their islands to Great Britain. The book sheds light on the social and political changes in Tonga and Fiji during Ma`afu's time and the legacy of his innovative land reforms.

The Lapita Peoples: Ancestors of the Oceanic World is an outstanding book that sheds light on the Lapita peoples, the common ancestor of the Polynesians, Micronesians, and Austronesian-speaking Melanesians. Professor Kirch takes the reader on a journey that begins with the earliest evidence of the Lapita peoples and describes their remarkable cultural development and spread across the islands of the Pacific. The author provides answers to some of the most puzzling archaeological and anthropological questions about the Lapita peoples, including how they were able to travel such great distances. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in the history of South-East Asia and the Pacific.

Kava in the Blood: A Personal & Political Memoir from the Heart of Fiji by Peter Thomson is a captivating read that masterfully blends personal reminiscences with political reportage of the 1987 coups in Fiji. The book provides an evocative picture of life in the islands, including hurricanes, haunted houses, and copious kava consumption, set within the dramatic landscapes and vibrant cultures of the Fiji Islands. The author's advocacy for a multi-racial, multicultural Fiji is inspiring. Overall, Kava in the Blood is an exceptional memoir that offers a unique perspective on Fiji's history and culture.

The book "God Is Samoan" by Matt Tomlinson explores the intersection of Pacific Islands culture and Christianity in shaping theological dialogues. Through scholarly research and ethnographic fieldwork, the author presents a symphony of voices from the leading religious thinkers of the contemporary Pacific. The book covers a range of topics, including new ways of reading the Bible, feminist theology, eco-theological awareness, and interconnection. Overall, this book offers a unique perspective on contextual theology that allows people in Oceania to speak with God and fellow humans through the idiom of culture in a distinctly Pacific way.

Tears in Paradise: Suffering and Struggles of Indians in Fiji 1879-2004 is a powerful and gut-wrenching account of the mistreatment and exploitation of Indian indentured workers in Fiji by the British. The author, Rajendra Prasad, a descendant of Girmitiya grandparents, vividly portrays the inhumane conditions and brutal treatment the workers endured. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Fiji and the legacy of colonialism. It sheds light on a dark period in history that is often overlooked. Overall, Tears in Paradise is a compelling and important read that will stay with readers long after they finish it.

The Darklands: A Melanesian Experience is a captivating book that explores the unique and mysterious cultural practices of the five Melanesian islands. Brandon Oswald, a native Southern Californian, delves into the traditional practices of Fiji, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu, shedding light on practices that often clash with Western ways of thinking and values. The author's passion for the culture and history of the Pacific Islands is evident throughout the book, making it an informative and engaging read for anyone interested in Oceania's history. Overall, The Darklands is a must-read book for those who want to learn about the fascinating cultural practices of Melanesia.

First Aid for Beginners is a comprehensive guide that teaches readers how to provide basic first aid in emergency situations. The book covers everything from preparing a first aid kit to bandaging wounds and dealing with common incidents like nosebleeds and fainting. The author emphasizes the importance of being prepared and taking action to help those in need. The book is well-organized and easy to follow, making it a great resource for beginners. Overall, First Aid for Beginners is a valuable book that provides readers with the knowledge and skills they need to be a helpful resource in an emergency.