The ava ceremony is at the heart of Samoan life, essential for marking important occasions and welcoming guests.
In this bilingual book, in Gagana Samoa and English by orator and teacher Tauanuu Sitagata, young readers can learn all about the ritual of exchange around the ava drink (known as kava in other parts of the South Pacific.)

Tauanu’u Perenise Tapu Sitagata teaches at McAuley High School in Otahuhu and the Centre for Pacific Languages in Manukau. He has received the National Excellence in Teaching Award for his efforts in teaching the Samoan language. His first book Alaga’upu Fa’asamoa ma Uiga mo Tamaiti – Samoan Proverbs for Children was published in 2025, and has already reprinted.

Ani Huia Ligaliga is a Maori artist and illustrator based in Hamilton. She illustrated Samoan Proverbs for Children, and her other published work includes The Ever-Standing Tree, by Tim Tipene (Oratia Books, 2024).

Paperback, 32 pages

H: 230mm W: 215mm Spine: 3mm

Weight: 200 grams