From the bestselling author of the "dazzling historical saga" (The Washington Post), Moloka'i, comes the irresistible story of a young immigrant bride in a ramshackle town that becomes a great modern city "In Korea in those days, newborn girls were not deemed important enough to be graced with formal names, but were instead given nicknames, which often reflected the parents' feelings on the birth of a daughter: I knew a girl named Anger, and another called Pity. As for me, my parents named me Regret." Honolulu is the rich, unforgettable story of a young "picture bride" who journeys to Hawai'i in 1914 in search of a better life. Instead of the affluent young husband and chance at an education that she has been promised, she is quickly married off to a poor, embittered laborer who takes his frustrations out on his new wife. Renaming herself Jin, she makes her own way in this strange land, finding both opportunity and prejudice. With the help of three of her fellow picture brides, Jin prospers along with her adopted city, now growing from a small territorial capital into the great multicultural city it is today. But paradise has its dark side, whether it's the daily struggle for survival in Honolulu's tenements, or a crime that will become the most infamous in the islands' history... With its passionate knowledge of people and places in Hawai'i far off the tourist track, Honolulu is most of all the spellbinding tale of four women in a new world, united by dreams, disappointment, sacrifices, and friendship.

A writer turned Hawaiian hotel manager observes the many lives that pass through his rooms in this novel by the author of The Great Railway Bazaar. A New York Times Notable Book In this wickedly satiric romp, a down-on-his-luck writer finds escape from his life as the manager of a low-rent hotel a few blocks from the beach in Waikiki. His boss is quick to explain that the Hotel Honolulu is a multistory establishment—and the writer soon discovers just how many stories are contained in its walls. Honeymooners, vacationers, wanderers, mythomaniacs, soldiers, and families all check in. Like the Canterbury pilgrims, every guest has come in search of something, whether it’s sun, love, happiness, or objects of unnameable longing. And every guest—not to mention the staff, the owner, and the author himself—has a story. By turns hilarious, ribald, tender, and tragic, Hotel Honolulu offers a unique glimpse into the psychological landscape of an American paradise. “A sun-soaked Decameron.”—Chicago Sun-Times

From the bestselling author of the "dazzling historical saga" (The Washington Post), Moloka'i, comes the irresistible story of a young immigrant bride in a ramshackle town that becomes a great modern city "In Korea in those days, newborn girls were not deemed important enough to be graced with formal names, but were instead given nicknames, which often reflected the parents' feelings on the birth of a daughter: I knew a girl named Anger, and another called Pity. As for me, my parents named me Regret." Honolulu is the rich, unforgettable story of a young "picture bride" who journeys to Hawai'i in 1914 in search of a better life. Instead of the affluent young husband and chance at an education that she has been promised, she is quickly married off to a poor, embittered laborer who takes his frustrations out on his new wife. Renaming herself Jin, she makes her own way in this strange land, finding both opportunity and prejudice. With the help of three of her fellow picture brides, Jin prospers along with her adopted city, now growing from a small territorial capital into the great multicultural city it is today. But paradise has its dark side, whether it's the daily struggle for survival in Honolulu's tenements, or a crime that will become the most infamous in the islands' history... With its passionate knowledge of people and places in Hawai'i far off the tourist track, Honolulu is most of all the spellbinding tale of four women in a new world, united by dreams, disappointment, sacrifices, and friendship.

The son of a singer mother whose career forcibly separated her from her family and an influential father who runs an orphan work camp, Pak Jun Do rises to prominence using instinctive talents and eventually becomes a professional kidnapper and romantic rival to Kim Jong Il. By the author of Parasites Like Us.

From the outrigger canoes of Waikiki to the tall ships of Honolulu Harbor, from the Kingdom of Hawaii to statehood, the history of Honolulu has played out against a backdrop of uncommon natural beauty. Home to the only royal residence on American soil, Honolulu witnessed in less than a century’s time the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy, the rise of the powerful sugar barons, and the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor. Yet through the good times and bad always this unique port city has offered an easygoing, welcoming spirit, to go with the warm trade winds and soft ocean swells for which Honolulu is world famous. Historic Photos of Honolulu presents nearly 200 images from the later years of the Hawaiian kingdom to the early years of the fiftieth state. Reproduced in vivid black and white, the photos in this volume show the city’s evolution and change, yet with a sense of its uncommon beauty ever present.

Honolulu, the vibrant capital city of Hawaii, beckons travelers with its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and modern amenities. Nestled on the island of Oahu, Honolulu is not just a gateway to stunning beaches and clear waters but also a hub of historical significance and contemporary Hawaiian life. From the iconic Diamond Head crater to the bustling streets of Waikiki, Honolulu offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every visitor's desires. Exploring Honolulu means immersing oneself in a tapestry of cultures. The city's history is intertwined with Polynesian traditions, Asian influences, and American heritage, creating a melting pot that is reflected in its cuisine, arts, and festivals. Whether you're sampling local delicacies at the bustling markets, learning about ancient Hawaiian traditions at the Bishop Museum, or simply soaking in the sunset at Ala Moana Beach Park, Honolulu invites you to discover its multifaceted identity. For those seeking adventure, Honolulu delivers with its abundance of outdoor activities. Surfing enthusiasts flock to the legendary waves of Waikiki Beach, while hikers find solace in the lush rainforests of Manoa Valley or the rugged cliffs of Makapuu Point. Beyond its natural allure, Honolulu also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with lively bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues scattered throughout the city. Honolulu is more than just a destination; it's a state of mind, a place where time slows down as you savor a fresh coconut on the beach, where every sunset brings a sense of awe, and where the aloha spirit welcomes you with open arms. Whether you're here for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Honolulu promises an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression.