The Legend of Tawhiri by J. E. Purrazzi

SPFBO9

There is a legend in the Archipelago. Long ago, the ocean grew weak, and feared for his heart. He took to the form of man and walked among the people. Tawhiri was a gift from the ocean. Plucked from the waves as an infant. The people of the Islands know that the Ri, spirits of the ocean, abandon unwanted half-breeds on the shore. These demigods are destined to return to the sea and leave ruin in their wake. It has happened many times before. Tawhiri has no interest in spirits or ruin. He loves his village, but as long as the elders forbid him from entering the ocean he cannot pass the tests which will allow him to be seen as a man and a full member of the tribe. When Kai’Ali, a friend whose twisted foot has held her back along with Tawhiri, passes the test and leaves him behind, the seeds of longing begin to grow in Tawhiri's heart Then the ocean begins to call to him.

Adult • Fantasy • Diversity Representation/BIPOC

lamichi author

Lovely light read about a South Pacific young man who isn't allowed to perform the adult initiation ceremony of his village because he was found in a beach. Lovely interaction with his adoptive mother, positive disability representation and a satisfying ending.