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In 1528 AD, the Polynesian island of Condonte is not prepared for war. The people have never needed to resort to violence. They live with the whispers of “the blue” to guide them, an ancient wisdom that presents itself in deep knowledge. One day ships arrive, and James Christo lands on the island. Pohii, the leader, must decide whether or not to trust James, who tells him that they have come peacefully to explore. Phoii’s wife, Iliakahani, advises her husband by listening to “the blue.” War is averted. The ships leave. The elders decide to explore a neighboring island, Mokiki. There, the elders find Ferdinand, the English Priest, who abandoned ship. Ferdinand helps the men discover twenty-four ancient tablets and dedicates himself to translating them. Months later, Portuguese ships arrive. Ferdinand convinces the captain to leave with provisions, and once again war is averted. But the islanders know that the third time a ship arrives, peace may not be the outcome. All they can do is trust that “the blue” will guide them.
The author’s book is a thought-provoking read about the meeting of two very different cultures and how they can best live in peace. “The blue” is an interesting concept; it is more than just intuition because it comes in the form of soft winds. The idea that women can understand “the blue” better than men is also intriguing. Readers who study religion will certainly understand the concept of “the blue.” The plot is simple but poignant, and the author makes it clear that although the first two ships left in peace, a third invasion may not prove as passive. Roberts is certainly well-schooled on Polynesian culture and the deep respect the people have for each other. This is a heartfelt story.