In Search Of The Friendly Islands

Explores the dilemmas, paradoxes and challenges of modern Tonga. An examination of how tradition and modernity co-exist in Tongan society and in the diasporic Tongan communities in New Zealand, Australia and the United States. Examines issues including domestic violence, the culture of domination and hierarchy, traditional and modern leadership, the 16/11 riots, economic development, globalisation and spirituality.

The funny, charming, and self-deprecating adventure story of a young man in the Pacific. Living for thirty years in the Gilbert & Ellis Islands, Grimble was ultimately initiated and tattooed according to local tradition, but not before he was severely tested, as when he was used as human bait for a giant octopus. Beyond the hilarious and frightening adventure stories, A Pattern of Islands is also a true testament to the life of these Pacific islanders. Grimble collected stories from the last generation who could remember the full glory of the old pagan ways. This is anthropology with its hair down.