The story of Paka'a and his son Ku-a-Paka'a relates the legend of a brave young boy who endeavors to restore his exiled father to his position as royal guardian and personal attendant to the king. How the boy's remarkable courage and ingenuity help his father regain his rightful place as "backbone of the king" is an eloquent, exciting narrative.

Hawaii's rich heritage of oral literature was not actually recorded until the past century. In her retelling of this epic story, Marcia Brown, conveys the beauty and pomp of ancient Hawaii and recreates a life and culture of days now past. Through the skillful meshing of authentic chants and taut prose she gives the reader a memorable glimpse into a littleknown folklore that can hold its own with the great legends of the world.

The fifty-seven magnificent linoleum blocks that illustrate Backbone of the King are based on sketches Miss Brown made on the scene.

From the dust jacket