He Iti te Kupu: Māori Metaphors and Similes

"He Iti te Kupu: Māori Metaphors and Similes" is an essential resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of te reo Māori. This comprehensive guide presents nearly 500 sayings, each drawn from various elements of the natural world and tied to human experiences, events, or contexts. The dual-language layout, with texts in both Māori and English, makes it accessible to learners and fluent speakers alike.

Divided into thematic sections like birds, body parts, and animals, this book not only teaches the sayings but also explores their meanings, uses, and cultural significance. The title, inspired by the proverb "The words are small, yet their meanings are substantial," highlights the profound impact these sayings have in the Māori cultural landscape.

Authored by Hona Black, a respected lecturer with deep roots in Māori education and language revitalisation, "He Iti te Kupu" serves as an invaluable tool for educators, students, and anyone passionate about incorporating nuanced Māori figures of speech into their daily communications. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned speaker, this book will enrich your linguistic journey, providing a bridge to both the language and the worldview of te reo Māori.

Author

Hona Black (Tūhoe, Te Whānau a Apanui, Ngāti Tūwharetoa) lectures on the post-graduate diploma in teaching for Māori medium schools at Te Pūtahi a Toi: School of Māori Knowledge at Massey University in Palmerston North. He has worked as the Senior Māori Adviser on Massey’s Wellington campus, and been Head of Te Reo Māori at Hato Pāora College in Feilding.