Born in Paradise

If you are a lover of all things Hawaii, know that this book is for you. Although this autobiography was written by a European after our dubious disturbance in these islands, Armine captures the feel, the smell, the magic, and the beauty of Hawaii in the early 1900s. Raised by a father with a great sense of adventure and love of his daughter and Hawaii, Armine lives a charmed existence and details it beautifully for us to escape to. If you have been to Maui, you will particularly love to read it with a map or memories in hand, to even better picture what she paints on the canvas of her book.

This book was purchased by me on a recent trip to Maui. I bought it in a museum gift shop in Lahaina. I was instantly transported back to Paradise--Maui. This is the story of a young girl being raised on Maui in the days of paniolos(Hawaiian cowboys),horses and cattle. She invites us to share in her adventures being the eldest daughter of a cattle ranch manager. Armine shares her trials, joys and sorrows of growing up in Maui. Encouraged by her loving father, she was taught strive to do her best and to take some risks in life. Many of the places she writes about are places that still interest many of us now. She brings to life a Maui that is far different now.A good book for all ages. Enjoy!

This is the author's own story of growing up on a cattle ranch on the island of Maui, Hawaii about 1900. Her descriptions of the exotic landscape and culture and her obvious joy in living this type of free outdoor life made me feel that I had lived there with her. I didn't want the book to end, so I read several of the author's other books. They are also very enjoyable, but I like this one the best, because it is a true story.

My mother has a copy of this book. I read it and found out that Armine and I have alot in common. We were both born in Hawaii, she on Maui, me on Oahu, but moved to Maui when I was 2 years old. We both have alot of fond childhood memories of the islands, events and our family and friends over there. She met royalty, grew up on a 10,000 acre ranch called Haleakala (pronounced hale-a-ka-la) Ranch situated on the volcano of the same name. It is now Tedeschi Winery (they make pineapple wine!)The book mainly tells the story of a white child growing up in paradise amongst hawaiians, portuguese, japanese, chinese, koreans, and other people of different races. She took pride in being called a "paniolo" (hawaiian for cowboy).Excellent book for everybody!

Armine Von Tempski grew up on the island of Maui, Hawaii. Her autobiography, 'Born in Paradise', describes in finite detail her love of the islands and the cultural traits of the Hawaiian people. Anyone who has a love of the islands, especially Maui, will enjoy the early 20th century accounts of events that took place. The infantile detail she pays attention to, enhances the beauty of the book. It makes you long for the inner peace of living such an idyllic life.Thanks, Paul M. Goyette