To celebrate Vaiaso o le Gagana Samoa - Samoan Language Week (1 – 7 June) Auckland Council Libraries and Oratia Books are launching a new bilingual picture book.
Written by Samoan – New Zealand author Tauanu’u Perenise Tapu Sitagata and illustrated by Māori artist Ani Huia Ligaliga, Alagā Fa’asamoa Ma Uiga mo Tamaiti Samoan Proverbs for Children, features 30 Samoan proverbs, vividly illustrated, with translations and explanations in both Gagana Samoa and English.
Designed to introduce children to the rich cultural heritage of Samoa, the book conveys proverbs that guide family life, leadership, education, and the environment through traditional Samoan storytelling.
Manukau Ward Councillor Lotu Fuli, who proudly speaks Gagana Samoa, says the new book is a meaningful step towards language preservation and access.
“As a fluent speaker of Gagana Samoa, I understand how important it is to have resources like this available in our local libraries”, says Councillor Fuli.
“This book helps ensure the next generation of Kiwi-Samoans can continue to learn and speak our language with pride. Our Gagana and cultural stories are measina (treasures)—this book helps protect and pass them on.”
The launch of Alagā Fa’asamoa Ma Uiga mo Tamaiti bookmarks a significant milestone in Auckland Council Libraries’ ongoing commitment to help nurture the cultural identity of Auckland’s diverse communities.
Auckland Council’s Head of Library and Learning Services Catherine Leonard says the libraries team are excited to have this book as part of the Pacific collection and accessible to all Aucklanders.
“Our libraries and community centres are welcoming spaces where Pasifika families can see themselves, hear their language and feel at home. Books like this one are an important part of celebrating identity and building strong connections with our communities,” Ms Leonard says.
Author Sitagata says that he wrote Alagā Fa’asamoa Ma Uiga mo Tamaiti to pass on timeless messages in a way that young readers could connect with.
“These proverbs or sayings reflect core Samoan values - self, family, community, and faith,” he says.
“In this book, I’ve included proverbs that have guided our people for generations, such as 'E fa'alogo Mulimai ia Muamai' - the young must listen to the old and learn from the wisdom of ancestors. And 'E le o le fale, ae o le anofale' - it is not the house that is important, it is the people who live in the house.”
Alagā Fa’asamoa Ma Uiga mo Tamaiti is available for borrowing in hardcopy and e-book format from all Auckland Council Libraries. To reserve your copy, visit the Auckland Libraries website or head to your nearest Auckland Council Library.
The book is also accompanied by a teaching resource, featuring simple activities for teachers and children to use together.
