Sauniga o le 'Ava Samoa - The 'Ava Ceremony of Samoa by Tauanu'u Perenise Tapu Sitagata

The 'ava ceremony is at the heart of Samoan life, essential for marking important occasions and welcoming guests. This new bilingual book in Gagana Samoa and English by orator and teacher Tauanu'u Sitagata guides younger readers through the ritual of exchange around the 'ava drink.

Sitagata includes important aspects of the ceremony, from its importance to fa'asamoa (the Samoan way) to the order of the speakers to who provides what food and what items are used within the ceremony. 

Artist Ani Huia Ligaliga creates beautiful illustrations documenting every aspect, alongside photographs. Her art is rich with detail and pattern, while also clearly illustrating each aspect of the ceremony.

The book finishes with the myth of the 'ava plant's origin.

This is a beautiful book rich with cultural meaning and importance. Sitagata published Alagā'upu Fa'asamoa ma Uiga mo Tamaiti - Samoan Proverbs for Children in 2025 and it is heartwarming to see another important book added to the series. 

Samoan is the third most spoken language in Aotearoa and it is so important that we have access to stories that reflect our communities and languages.

Co-published by Oratia Books and Auckland Council Libraries, this is a precious book that provides readers with a beautiful insight into a rich culture.

Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell

Oratia Books