If you’re interested in Māori legends (or grew up around pūrākau) or liked “Circe,” meet “Kurangaituku.”

We love reclaiming ancient stories of maligned women, and we absolutely loved Kurangaituku! In Māori history, this bird-woman imprisons a man, Hatupatu, against his will. In this retelling, however, we learn that she is more than a mere plot device. She’s a woman who wants her version of the story to be heard. We’re guided through a gamut of emotional experiences with vivid imagery through carefully crafted language and form and, above all, a respect for te ao Māori. A truly special read.