Tauanu’u Perenise Tapu Sitagata
Illustrated by Ani Huia Ligaliga
With beautiful illustrations by artist Ani Huia Ligaliga, Sauniga o le ‘Ava Samoa/The 'Ava Ceremony of Samoa outlines the steps in the ceremony and the roles of orators and participants. It explains the items used, food and etiquette of the ceremony, and presentations made between hosts and visitors.
Drawing on his deep knowledge of fa’asamoa (the Samoan Way), Tauanu’u explains the sequence of making and serving ‘ava, including who does what, and objects used.
The book concludes with the myth of the ‘ava plant’s origins, here for the first time in written form, with sensitive illustrations.
Co-published by Oratia Books and Auckland Council Libraries, this attractive picture book is releasing in time for Samoa Language Week (31 May–6 June).
The Author and Illustrator
Tauanu’u Perenise Tapu Sitagata teaches at McAuley High School in Ōtahuhu and the Centre for Pacific Languages in Manukau. He has received the National Excellence in Teaching Award for his achievements in teaching the Samoan language. His first book, Alagā’upu Fa’asamoa ma Uiga mo Tamaiti/Samoan Proverbs for Children, was published in 2025 and has already reprinted.
Ani Huia Ligaliga is a Māori artist and illustrator based in Hamilton. She illustrated Tauanu'u's previous work, Alagā'upu Fa'asamo ma Uiga mo Tamaiti/Samoan Proverbs for Children (Oratia Books, 2025), and her other published work includes The Ever-Standing Tree by Tim Tipene (Oratia Books, 2024).
Publication Date: 14 May 2026 | ISBN: 9781991353078 | RRP $21.00
Paperback, 230 x 215 mm, 32 pages, colour
