Hawaii: An Uncommon History

I have had this book on my shelf for some time now but only recently have I looked into it. The chapters are organized in a loosely chronological manner and consist of rather short anecdotal "episodes," strung together to reveal a fascinating history. Rather than a cold academic study, the tone of the narrative comes off as that of a longtime resident of Hawaii fondly devoted to relating the islands' history. Although Hawaii is clearly the focus, each story is aptly recounted by setting it in the context of 18th and 19th century European and U.S. expansion. Joesting thus unobtrusively acquaints us with the rough-and-tumble sailors, scoundrels and vagabonds (some of whom we've all met elsewhere) and their world, as they each touch land on the crucible of the Hawaiian islands.