Gary T Ikari

In the easy-going 1960s Hawaii, there is nothing easy-going about enigmatic 17-year-old Hama who runs through life as fast as Hawaii changes from US territory to state. No common sense, says Craig. Jumbled mind, says Bub. But disquieted by the rushing, Elaine senses a desperate struggle tempting a catastrophe.

Chalking up Hama’s urgency to quirkiness, these memorable characters run along with him - moonlight picnic in Ala Moana, spearing sleeping fish on a moonless night, facing the pounding surf at fierce Blow Hole - until the catastrophe catches up to them. They respond with strength they didn’t know they had, strength that overcomes insecurities and fears to embrace hope and finally, triumph.

Because I Go Like That and Fall Down in the Water is a touching novel about decency and deep friendships in an awakening Hawaii. It is a story depicting the era, the character of the people, and the changes to an enchanting land.