Pipi and Pou and the Tentacles of the Deep

As a kid growing up I always wished there were more books about my culture, more characters that looked like me and issues that I could relate to. This book is the book my 6 year old self wishes I had. Pipi and Pou are a series of easy to read novels aimed at 6 year olds and older about issues affecting Aotearoa. Even though this is the third book in the series, these can be read alone.

The three characters this book focuses on are kaitiaki of the natural world. Nana is a tohunga and Pipi and Pou can shapeshift. Pipi and Pou and the tentacles of the deep focuses on the moana and how we need to take better care of it.

Te Reo Māori is interwoven throughout the book which exposes rangatahi to the language, and the simple illustrations help bring the story to life. Throughout the story, you are exposed to a Te Ao Māori world through the interactions with whānau, introduction to cultural practices around conservation and reminded of important Māori legends and figures. It is a relatable story with modern use of colloquial language and will be enjoyed by younger children, as it is packed full of adventure, action and fun.