A New Bilingual Picture Book Of Samoan Proverbs With Explanations For Children In Time For Samoa Language Week 2025

Traditional wisdom that can inspire and guide the kids of today — that’s the concept for Alagā’upu Fa’asamoa Ma Uiga mo Tamaiti.

The book features 30 Samoan proverbs, vividly illustrated, with translations and explanations in both Gagana Samoa and English.

Written by teacher, translator and community leader Tauanu’u Perenise Tapu Sitagata, the book is designed to introduce children to the rich cultural heritage of Samoa, conveying proverbs that guide family life, leadership, education, and the environment by drawing on a wealth of traditional wisdom that can appeal to younger readers of all ethnicities in Aotearoa.

Sitagata and artist Ani Huia Ligaliga worked with Oratia Books to prepare the book in partnership with Auckland Libraries. Publication is set for the first week of May.

About the author:
Tauanu’u Perenise Tapu Sitagata was born and raised in Samoa and lives in Auckland. An eminent orator and community leader, he teaches at McAuley High School in Ōtahuhu and the Centre for Pacific Languages in Manukau.

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