Book Review: The Pounamu Prophecy by Cindy Williams

The Pounamu Prophecy is set in New Zealand and Australia. Helene and James are a married couple struggling to value and support each other within their marriage. Helene is a busy doctor focused on saving others and James is trying to prove he has what it takes to be an independent graphic designer. Mere, is a Maori woman and friend of James' mother, who is staying in their guest house while she writes her memoirs. Mere is a grandmother now but the story focuses primarily on her childhood. She watched the government burn one home and dismantle another.  The book shifts between these three viewpoints and their relationship grows increasingly interconnected as the book goes on.

I really enjoyed the two stories and seeing how they joined together at the end. It was very interesting reading about a culture that where I live is only talked about generally in a few history classes. I found Mere's character to be very strong and inspiring. The book touches lightly on faith, as Mere’s family and most of her tribe are Christians but it is not heavy handed and leaves the reader open to decide for themselves. The book does use some Maori language but it doesn't take away from the story, especially as there is a glossary of terms in the back.