Pele the Goddess of Fire

William Hyde Rice

Published by The Hawaii Herald Printing Company, 1907

About this Item

The Hawaii Herald Printing Company; Hilo, 1907. Hardcover. Limited Edition. Book is limited to 300 numbered copies. This book is number 33. This is a small booklet that retells the traditional Hawaiian legend of Pele, the deity associated with volcanoes, creation, and the fiery landscape of the islands. The text presents a concise narrative drawn from local oral traditions, intended for cultural education and for visitors seeking an introduction to Hawaiian mythology. The booklet reflects early twentieth century interest in preserving and sharing Native Hawaiian stories during a period of growing tourism and cultural documentation. A Good, bound in a handcrafted vernacular binding, created from natural bark or bark textured paper that has been shaped into irregular, deckle like boards. The cover material is intentionally rustic, giving the booklet the appearance of a souvenir or artisan produced Hawaiian binding rather than a standard publisher wrapper. The volume is stab sewn along the left edge using a visible cord or thong, a structure associated with Japanese style stab bindings and with early twentieth century Hawaiian tourist pieces that imitated traditional craft methods. The exposed sewing functions as both the structural support and the decorative element, with the cord acting as the primary fastening system rather than a case spine. The front board is lettered in a simple hand drawn style, consistent with small batch or locally produced bindings intended for visitors. The cover material is worn and frayed along the edges, text block a bit age toned, interior pages show some scattered foxing and few moisture stains. 16mo[sextodecimo or approx. 5 x 6.5 inches]., unpaginated. We pack securely and ship daily with delivery confirmation on every book. The picture on the listing page is of the actual book for sale. Additional Scan(s) are available for any item, please inquire.Please note: Oversized books/sets MAY require additional postage then what is quoted for 2.2lb book.

Seller Inventory # 111111114599

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Pele the Goddess of Fire
• Publisher: The Hawaii Herald Printing Company
• Publication Date: 1907
• Language: English
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: Good
• Seller catalogs:
  • Spiritual/Religion