PRESS RELEASE
Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill, AUCKLAND 29 July 2010
Awakening young readers to the wonders that surround them is the kaupapa (mission) of Sharing Our Stories, a group of committed young leaders who today release their first book in English and Te Reo editions.
The Castle in our Backyard (in English) and Te Pā Kaha kei tō tatōu Iāri (in Māori) is the first book by group member Malcolm Paterson, and is illustrated by young Karekare artist Leah Mulgrew.
Released to mark Māori Language Week/Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, the book invites young readers to enter the history of Auckland’s One Tree Hill/Maungakiekie alongside two modern-day characters.
Tui and his cousin Jennifer are too busy playing a video game to want to visit Maungakiekie – until their Nanny Marei tells them the mountain’s got giants and fortresses, just like their game.
Sharing Our Stories grew as a team project under a leadership programme of the Committee for Auckland.
“We hope that by becoming more aware of our rich history, New Zealanders will enhance their pride in our unique heritage,” said Malcolm Paterson.
The books, from Waitakere City publisher Libro International, are available at good bookstores and online.
On sale from 29 July, the books will be launched at One Tree Hill/Maungakiekie that evening.
Review copies are available NOW
