Samoa, A Hundred Years Ago And Long Before: Together With Notes On The Cults And Customs Of Twenty Three Other Islands In The Pacific : Book Review

"Samoa: A Hundred Years Ago and Long Before" by George Turner is a captivating exploration of Samoa's rich cultural heritage and its transformation throughout history. Turner skillfully transports readers back in time, providing valuable insights into the ancient traditions and customs of Samoa from a hundred years ago and beyond. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, this book offers a comprehensive understanding of the people, their way of life, and the changes that have shaped the island over the centuries.

One of the strengths of Turner's writing is his ability to interweave personal anecdotes, observations, and historical facts. This blending of perspectives allows readers to immerse themselves in the landscape and people of Samoa. From the significance of tattooing to the roles of leaders and chiefs, Turner covers a wide range of topics, shedding light on the distinct culture and traditions that define Samoa.

What sets this book apart is Turner's incorporation of his own experiences as a government officer in Samoa. These firsthand accounts provide authenticity and a unique perspective on the changes that have occurred on the island. Turner's keen observations showcase the evolution of Samoan culture while emphasizing its deep-rooted traditional values.

Moreover, "Samoa: A Hundred Years Ago and Long Before" not only offers historical context but also delves into contemporary issues and challenges faced by Samoa today. Turner explores the impact of colonization, the introduction of Christianity, and the ongoing clash between traditional and Western values. This adds depth to the narrative and makes the book relevant to readers seeking to understand the cultural and societal changes taking place in Samoa.

In conclusion, George Turner's "Samoa: A Hundred Years Ago and Long Before" is a captivating and enlightening read for anyone interested in the history and culture of Samoa. Through a skillful blend of personal anecdotes and historical research, Turner provides a comprehensive overview of Samoa's past, present, and the challenges it continues to face. This book is a valuable resource for understanding the rich heritage and transformation of this island nation.

What are readers saying?

The book "Samoa: A Hundred Years Ago and Long Before" by George Turner has garnered a mix of reviews from readers. These reviews reflect a range of opinions on the book's quality and content.

Many readers appreciated Turner's extensive research and attention to detail in recounting the historical account of Samoa. They found the book to be a valuable resource for learning about Samoan history and culture. These readers admired Turner's ability to bring the past to life through rich descriptions and captivating storytelling.

On the other hand, some readers found Turner's writing style to be excessively wordy and challenging to comprehend. They criticized the convoluted nature of his prose, which, they believed, impeded their ability to follow the narrative effectively. These readers felt that the book could have benefited from more straightforward and concise writing.

A commonly voiced concern among readers pertained to the lack of organization in the book. Many readers felt that the chapters seemed disjointed and lacked a clear structure, making it confusing to navigate through the content. Some readers also commented on the absence of a cohesive narrative thread, as the book frequently shifted between different time periods and topics without clear transitions.

Despite these criticisms, a significant number of readers still found value in the book's insights into Samoan history. They appreciated Turner's inclusion of primary sources and archival materials, which added credibility to his research. Additionally, the book shed light on lesser-known aspects of Samoa's past, making it an intriguing and informative read for many.

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