Tonga: In Search of the Friendly Islands

Pasifika Foundation Press, 2009. Review Copy stamp on title page.

In Search of the Friendly Islands is a thought-provoking examination of how tradition and modernity co-exist in Tongan society, not only in Tonga but also in the diasporic Tongan communities in New Zealand, Australia and the United States. Tongan publisher and broadcaster Kalafi Moala's explores the dilemmas, paradoxes and challenges of modern Tonga in this, his second book. Is the Kingdom of Tonga losing its way? What is Tongan culture, and how will it determine the path of Tonga s future? How will Tonga respond to changing circumstances? These and other questions are examined, with the goal of looking towards a dynamic and positive future for modern Tonga. Moala examines myriad issues including domestic violence, the culture of domination and hierarchy, traditional and modern leadership, the 16/11 riots, economic development, globalization and spirituality. As major changes are currently taking place in the structure of Tongan government, Moala believes that simply reforming the government will not, in and of itself, achieve the hoped-for results. Tongan communities and individuals must, he urges, look within for the deeper transformations that will lead to true reform.