In 'Lost Kingdom,' Julia Flynn Siler unveils the captivating tale of Hawaii's tumultuous history and the fall of its monarchy. Through the lens of Princess Ka'iulani, the last heir to the Hawaiian throne, the narrative explores themes of identity, resilience, and the clash of cultures. As colonial powers converge, the story reveals the bittersweet beauty of a kingdom on the brink of collapse. Siler's vivid storytelling immerses readers in a world of lush landscapes and political intrigue that shaped a nation. Discover how the echoes of this lost kingdom continue to resonate today, beckoning exploration of cultural heritage and longing for home.
By Julia Flynn Siler
Published: 2013
"In the shadows of history, the heart of a kingdom beats strongest, woven from the dreams and struggles of its people."
"Only one American state was formally a sovereign monarchy. In this compelling narrative, the award-winning journalist Julia Flynn Siler chronicles how this Pacific kingdom, creation of a proud Polynesian people, was encountered, annexed, and absorbed." —Kevin Starr, historian, University of Southern California Around 200 A.D., intrepid Polynesians paddled thousands of miles across the Pacific and arrived at an undisturbed archipelago. For centuries, their descendants lived with almost no contact from the Western world but in 1778 their profound isolation was shattered with the arrival of Captain Cook. Deftly weaving together a memorable cast of characters, Lost Kingdom brings to life the ensuing clash between the vulnerable Polynesian people and the relentlessly expanding capitalist powers. Portraits of royalty, rogues, sugar barons, and missionaries combine into a sweeping tale of the Hawaiian kingdom’s rise and fall. At the center of the story is Lili‘uokalani, the last queen of Hawaii. Born in 1838, she lived through the nearly complete economic transformation of the islands. Lucrative sugar plantations owned almost exclusively by white planters, dubbed the "Sugar Kings," gradually subsumed the majority of the land. Hawaii became a prize in the contest between America, Britain, and France, each of whom were seeking to expand their military and commercial influence in the Pacific. Lost Kingdom is the tragic story of Lili‘uokalani’s family and their fortunes. The monarchy had become a figurehead, victim to manipulation from the wealthy sugar-plantation owners. Upon ascending to the throne, Lili‘uokalani was determined to enact a constitution reinstating the monarchy’s power but she was outmaneuvered and, in January 1893, U.S. Marines from the USS Boston marched through the streets of Honolulu to the palace. The annexation of Hawaii had begun, ushering in a new century of American imperialism.
Showing 8 of 27 similar books
Daniel Pink is a renowned American author known for his groundbreaking work in the fields of business, work, and behavior. He has penned several bestselling books, including "Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us," which explores the science of motivation and has been translated into over 30 languages. Pink's "A Whole New Mind" and "To Sell is Human" have also received critical acclaim, cementing his reputation as a thought leader. His insightful TED Talks and frequent contributions to major publications further amplify his influence. Pink's work has significantly shaped contemporary understanding of motivation, creativity, and the modern workplace.
Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, is an American actress, humanitarian, and author known for her role as Rachel Zane on the television series "Suits." After marrying Prince Harry in 2018, she became a prominent figure in the British royal family and an advocate for social justice and women's rights. In 2021, she published her first children's book, "The Bench," which explores the bond between fathers and sons through a mother's eyes. Markle's literary work reflects her commitment to storytelling and her passion for fostering empathy and understanding. Beyond literature, she co-founded the Archewell Foundation with Prince Harry to promote compassion and well-being globally.
Bret Victor is a renowned American interface designer and computer scientist celebrated for his innovative contributions to interactive design and human-computer interaction. He is best known for creating dynamic, explorable explanations, which have significantly influenced the way educational content is presented and understood. Victor's seminal work, "Inventing on Principle," advocates for the integration of immediate feedback in creative processes, inspiring a new wave of interactive programming environments. As a former member of the Apple Human Interface team, he played a pivotal role in shaping modern user interfaces. Through his organization, Dynamicland, Victor continues to explore and expand the boundaries of immersive, collaborative computing environments.
Janet Mock is an acclaimed writer, director, and transgender rights activist known for her groundbreaking memoir, "Redefining Realness," which became a New York Times bestseller. She followed this with "Surpassing Certainty," further cementing her voice in contemporary literature. Mock's work has not only highlighted her own journey but also brought vital visibility to the transgender community. In addition to her literary achievements, she has made significant contributions to television, notably as a writer, director, and producer for the series "Pose." Through her multifaceted career, Mock has become a powerful advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and an influential figure in modern storytelling.
Caterina Fake is an American entrepreneur and investor, best known for co-founding Flickr, one of the first photo-sharing platforms that helped define social media and web 2.0. After the success of Flickr, Fake went on to co-found Hunch, a recommendation engine that was later acquired by eBay. She is a partner at Yes VC, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups, with a focus on companies that foster human connection and creativity. Fake is also an advocate for ethical technology and often speaks about the importance of designing products that prioritize user well-being. Her contributions to tech and her insights on the intersection of technology and culture have made her a respected leader in the industry.
Anna Kendrick is an acclaimed actress and author, best known for her versatile performances in film and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the "Twilight" series and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Up in the Air." In 2016, Kendrick expanded her creative repertoire by publishing her memoir, "Scrappy Little Nobody," which offers a candid, humorous look at her life and career. The book became a New York Times bestseller, showcasing her sharp wit and storytelling talent. Kendrick continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her engaging presence and authentic voice.
Ben Shapiro is an American conservative political commentator, author, and lawyer, known for his sharp analytical skills and outspoken views. He graduated from UCLA at the age of 20 and Harvard Law School at 23, demonstrating his early intellectual prowess. Shapiro is the author of several best-selling books including "Bullies: How the Left's Culture of Fear and Intimidation Silences Americans" and "The Right Side of History: How Reason and Moral Purpose Made the West Great." He is the co-founder and editor emeritus of The Daily Wire, a popular conservative news and opinion website. Through his writing and media presence, Shapiro has significantly influenced contemporary political discourse in the United States.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Showing 8 of 20 related collections
“In the shadows of history, the heart of a kingdom beats strongest, woven from the dreams and struggles of its people.”
Lost Kingdom
By Julia Flynn Siler
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Julia Flynn Siler is an acclaimed American author and journalist, known for her compelling narrative style and in-depth research. She has penned several notable works, including 'The Lost History of the New Madrid Earthquakes,' 'The House of Mondavi: The Rise and Fall of an American Wine Dynasty,' and 'The Silver Spoon: A Memoir of My Early Years.' Siler's writing often blends personal memoir with historical narrative, inviting readers into the complex worlds of her subjects. With a background in journalism, she brings a meticulous attention to detail and a narrative flair that captures the intricacies of both human experience and historical events.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "The Lies of Locke Lamora," master thief Locke Lamora navigates a treacherous world of intrigue and deception in the city of Camorr, where the line between friend and foe blurs. As he orchestrates elaborate heists with his band of con artists, known as the Gentleman Bastards, they are drawn into a deadly game with a sinister crime lord. Betrayal, wits, and a touch of mischief weave throughout this gripping tale, challenging Locke to outsmart both his enemies and his own crew. Amid the chaos, shocking revelations test their loyalties and the very bonds of friendship. Will Locke's cunning be enough to survive the lies that threaten to unravel everything he holds dear?
In "Guns, Germs, and Steel," Jared Diamond embarks on a captivating exploration of the forces that shaped human civilization. He argues that geographic and environmental factors, rather than inherent differences among peoples, were pivotal in determining the fates of societies. Through a gripping narrative, Diamond unveils how the spread of agriculture, the domestication of animals, and the availability of resources laid the groundwork for conquest and colonialism. Readers are challenged to reconsider history's most significant events through the lens of ecology and evolution. This thought-provoking masterpiece invites you to question what truly drives societal power across civilizations.
In 'Guns, Germs, and Steel,' Jared Diamond investigates the factors that have shaped human societies over the last 13,000 years. He argues that environmental differences, rather than racial genetics, have been the primary drivers of inequality among civilizations. The book explores how agriculture, technology, and disease have influenced the rise and fall of empires. Through compelling narratives and insightful analysis, Diamond uncovers the unexpected connections between geography and history. Readers are left questioning the very foundations of societal development and the future of humanity.
In 'Voices of a People's History of the United States,' Howard Zinn and Anthony Arnove present a powerful anthology that amplifies the voices often silenced in mainstream narratives. This 10th Anniversary Edition delves into the stories of marginalized communities, offering a profound insight into the struggles and triumphs of the American populace. Featuring riveting accounts from laborers, activists, and everyday citizens, the book challenges conventional historical perspectives. Each narrative serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the continuous fight for justice. Discover the untold stories that shape the fabric of America and provoke thought about the narratives we accept.
In 'A History of Economic Theory', Jürg Niehans takes readers on a captivating journey through the evolution of economic thought. From ancient philosophies to contemporary paradigms, the book unravels how ideas have shaped economic practices across cultures and eras. With each chapter, Niehans reveals the intellectual battles and breakthroughs that have defined the discipline. Rich in historical context, this work challenges readers to consider the relevance of past theories in today's economy. Dive into this scholarly adventure and discover how the past continually influences our understanding of wealth and value.
In '1421: The Year China Discovered The World,' Gavin Menzies presents a groundbreaking theory that suggests the Ming Dynasty launched a massive naval expedition that circumnavigated the globe long before Columbus. The narrative intertwines maritime exploration, historical intrigue, and compelling shipbuilding technologies, revealing a hidden chapter of world history. Menzies argues that these voyages led to encounters with distant lands, including America and Australia, fundamentally changing global trade and interaction. His thrilling investigation challenges long-held beliefs and ignites debate among historians about the true timeline of exploration. Are we ready to rethink the story of our past?
In 'A History of God', Karen Armstrong embarks on a fascinating journey through the evolution of the concept of God from ancient times to the modern era. She explores how various religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—have shaped humanity's understanding of the divine, revealing the complexities and contradictions in these beliefs. Highlighting the influence of culture, politics, and philosophy, Armstrong invites readers to reconsider their perceptions of faith and spirituality. This thought-provoking narrative raises profound questions about the nature of belief and the future of religious thought. Are we on the brink of a new understanding of God, or are we simply repeating history?
In 'A Brief History of Everything', Ken Wilber takes readers on an enlightening journey through the evolution of consciousness and the unfolding of human history. He skillfully weaves together insights from philosophy, science, and spirituality, offering a holistic perspective on our existence. Discover how various cultural paradigms intersect and influence our understanding of reality. This thought-provoking exploration challenges conventional views and invites readers to contemplate their place in the cosmos. What if the key to our future lies in understanding the past in a radically new way?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
