This basic look at Tonga, in a series that allows us to tour the Pacific Island nations, can seem a bit too worthy, stodgy, and to my mind too old-school, thump-you-over-the-head-with-a-chalk-board-eraser kind of geography teacher. But it is not absolutely dreadful – it will educate, even if in ways I'd still question and over subjects I'd still doubt the need for. This might have been towards the lower of the star ratings, had I not seen others in the series, and realised that these are all written by natives, and from the viewpoint of what they would wish you to learn. So fair's fair – even if this goes off-curriculum, it can't be too bad to be taught about the islands from an Islander.

I really love Tonga by Ruth Toumu'a! Tonga gives a real basic overview of the great, magnificent country that introduces kids to the country of Tonga. I loved the facts about Tonga that were in the book, especially Tonga's Royal Family. I highly recommend Tonga by Ruth Toumu'a and believe you will learn a lot. Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read this book. My review is also on Goodreads.

Tonga is one of 5 books in a series on the Pacific Islands. It is geared toward children in upper elementary and middle school. The book has three chapters: The History of Tonga, Island Traditions, and Tonga Today. The history chapter includes legends, such as the story of Maui, and information about boat building and how Tongans made rope. The book also teaches about the government, food, clothing, education, and traditions in Tonga.

There are many photographs throughout the book to supplement the text and give a feel for what the islands are truly like. At the end of the book is a glossary divided into Tongan words and English words. There is also an Index and a list of additional sources of information for learning more.

Thank you to #NetGalley and #NorwoodHousePress for an eARC of #Tonga

Very informative and enchanting look at life in Tonga by Ruth Toumu’a.
Of all the Pacific Islands, Tonga is the one I knew the least about. It’s always nice to learn something new.
Beautiful images, geographic details, cultural background, historical information, pronunciation guides, and current events are all explored in this series.
This would make a great addition to any elementary/middle school library or classroom.
Thanks to NetGalley and Norwood Press for the early review copy!

I thought that this was a really good book.

It was well laid out and it had some great images to bring the book to life.

I loved the mix of language and the traditions used in the book.

It is 5 stars from me for this one, a great insight in to Tonga, their country and customs – very highly recommended

I like the chapter breakdowns of the history, island traditions, and what Tonga is like today. I found it interesting that there are no traffic lights in Tonga. Out of the series, I feel like this book is shorter. overall, this is a very informative book about Tonga with beautiful pictures.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Norwood Press for my copy of Tonga by Ruth Toumu'a in exchange for an honest review. It published August 15, 2022.
This book, and the related series is wonderful! As an adult, I felt like I was learning quite a lot, from origin stories, geographical location, culture, customs, foods, and more, this is an excellent resource for children and adults alike!
This would make an excellent addition to any library or classroom!