New Children's Book Brings the Heart of the 'Ava Ceremony to a New Generation This Samoa Language Week

“The wealth in language, culture, stories, protocol, songs, myths and legends must be exposed to our young people outside of Samoa. ” Author - Tauanu’u Perenise Tapu Sitagata

From the fale to the bookshelf, a new bilingual children's book is helping ensure one of Samoa's most important cultural traditions continues to be passed on to the next generation.

Released in time for Samoa Language Week, Sauniga o le 'Ava Samoa / The 'Ava Ceremony of Samoa introduces young readers to the customs, protocols and stories behind the 'ava ceremony, a cornerstone of fa'asamoa.

Written by respected educator, orator and cultural advocate Tauanu'u Perenise Tapu Sitagata and illustrated by Ani Huia Ligaliga, the book is written in both Gagana Samoa and English, making it accessible to families across Aotearoa and the wider diaspora.

For Tauanu'u, the motivation behind the book was simple: ensuring Samoan language and culture continue to thrive for future generations.

"It is important for me to provide resources for the diaspora for the survival of our Samoan language and culture.

The wealth in language, culture, stories, protocol, songs, myths and legends must be exposed to our young people outside of Samoa."

While many resources about Samoan customs are aimed at adults, Tauanu'u recognised a lack of material for children and young people wanting to learn about their culture in a way that is engaging and easy to understand.

The book takes readers step-by-step through the 'ava ceremony, explaining the roles of chiefs, orators and attendants, the significance of where people sit inside the fale, and why every part of the ceremony follows a carefully observed protocol.

"The order of speeches must also be adhered to as the 'ava ceremony cannot be done in any other way."

Tauanu'u says understanding these customs helps young people appreciate the deeper values behind the ceremony and the respect it carries within Samoan society.

Beautifully illustrated throughout, the book also explores the food, ceremonial items and exchanges between hosts and visitors. It even includes the origin story of the 'ava plant, shared in written form for the first time.

As Samoa Language Week shines a spotlight on the importance of protecting and promoting Gagana Samoa, Tauanu'u hopes families will be encouraged to make the language part of everyday life.

"Speak gagana Samoa at home if you are able to. Everyday communication in the language is the best teacher and source of encouragement."

He also encourages families to embrace Samoan songs, stories, language courses, church communities and opportunities to practise speaking with relatives.

And for those wanting the ultimate language immersion?

"Ave tamaiti i Samoa!" he laughs

At a time when many Pacific families are looking for ways to strengthen cultural connections for the next generation, Sauniga o le 'Ava Samoa / The 'Ava Ceremony of Samoa is more than just a children's book. It's a celebration of language, identity and one of the most treasured traditions in Samoan culture.

Just in time for Samoa Language Week, it's another reminder that when we teach our children the language, stories and customs of our ancestors, we're helping keep fa'asamoa alive for generations to come.