Edith Kanakaole: The Heart of Hula

WAYFINDERS is a new series of biographies celebrating Hawai‘i’s leaders—women and men who have helped shape the islands as we know them today. These books shine a light on those well-known and lesser-known educators, scientists, athletes, artists, activists, and political leaders who have transformed Hawai‘i and paved the way for future generations.

This fourth WAYFINDERS book is about Aunty Edith, a beloved Hawaiian kumu hula, chanter, composer, and educator. Her life was deeply connected to Hawaiian traditions, from the beach where she learned to catch fish to the taro patch where she worked with others. Edith’s dedication to preserving Hawaiian culture through hula, language, and music led her to share her knowledge worldwide. Honored as a “Living Treasure of Hawai‘i,” her legacy lives on through her family, her hālau hula, and the Edith Kanaka‘ole Multi-Purpose Stadium where the Merrie Monarch is held. Discover the life and wisdom of this extraordinary woman who helped keep Hawaiian traditions alive.