Peace, Samoa, Peace: A Dark Day in Samoa's Fight for Freedom (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780964442696)

Peace, Samoa, Peace: A Dark Day in Samoa's Fight for Freedom is an inspiring historical children's chapter book that brings to life one of the most dramatic episodes in Samoa's struggle for independence.

Written as an engaging fireside conversation between a young Samoan-American boy named Tama and his wise grandfather, the story opens with Tama storming home angry after his teacher declares that Samoa is not a Christian nation. Grandpa Logo calms his grandson's temper and recounts the courageous stand of Tama's namesake, high chief Tupua Tamasese Lealofi III, and the non-violent Mau movement against New Zealand colonial rule in the 1920s.

Through vivid, age-appropriate scenes, readers witness the tensions under Administrator George Richardson: intrusive rules over everyday items like teacups and spoons, forced village "remodeling" that destroyed ancestral homes and graves, the painful memory of the deadly 1918 influenza outbreak aboard the ship Talune, and the growing resistance led by Tamasese and merchant Olaf Nelson (Ta'isi). The narrative builds to the heartbreaking climax on Black Saturday, December 28, 1929, when peaceful Mau protesters in Apia faced armed police, resulting in the shooting death of Tamasese and several others as he cried out, "Peace, Samoa, peace!"

Yet the story is ultimately one of hope, faith, and self-control. Tamasese's final words echo Christ's example of forgiveness and non-violence: he urges his people not to seek revenge but to maintain peace at any cost. Grandpa uses these events to teach Tama-and young readers-about God-given principles of self-government, equality before God, and the difference between man-made customs and unchanging biblical truth.

Perfect for ages 8-12 (and enjoyable for older readers and families), the book blends exciting historical drama, Samoan cultural details, and gentle Christian worldview lessons. It addresses anger management, respect for authority, and what truly makes a nation "Christian"-not merely the faith of its leaders, but whether its government and constitution rest on God's principles.

The author, Daniel Pouesi, draws from his Samoan heritage and reliable historical sources such as The Mau: Samoa's Struggle for Freedom by Michael Field. In an author's note, he reflects on Samoa's constitution, which declares the nation "based on Christian principles and Samoan custom and traditions," and reminds readers that only God's unchanging Word provides a firm foundation.

Peace, Samoa, Peace is a powerful, heartfelt introduction to Pacific Island history, colonial resistance, and the timeless values of peace, forgiveness, and faith. It leaves readers with a memorable question: What does it really mean for a nation-or a young boy-to walk in wisdom and self-control?