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Witi Ihimaera

The Dream Swimmer

Part of "The Mahana Family" series

"The Dream Swimmer" by Witi Ihimaera is a powerful and moving exploration of Maori culture, family, and identity. The novel follows the story of Tama, a young Maori man who has the ability to enter the dreams of others. After his father's death, Tama is visited by the spirit of his ancestor, Paikea, who teaches him to use his gift to help heal the wounds of his family and community. The novel is set in the small Maori community of Whangara on the East Coast of New Zealand, and Ihimaera skillfully weaves together the stories of several generations of the community to create a rich and complex narrative. At the heart of the novel is the relationship between Tama and his mother, Hiwi, who is struggling to come to terms with the loss of her husband and the challenges of raising their children alone. Through Tama's dream-walking, Hiwi is able to confront her own fears and insecurities, and the two are able to find a new level of understanding and connection. Ihimaera's writing is both lyrical and powerful, and he captures the beauty and complexity of Maori culture with sensitivity and grace. The novel is also deeply rooted in the land and sea of Whangara, and Ihimaera's vivid descriptions of the natural world bring the setting to life in a way that is both evocative and haunting. Overall, "The Dream Swimmer" is a deeply moving and thought-provoking novel that explores the power of dreams, the importance of family and community, and the enduring strength of Maori culture. It is a must-read for anyone interested in New Zealand literature, Maori history and culture, or the human capacity for healing and transformation...