The Book of Luelen

Abstract

Luelen Bernart, a member of a prominent Ponapean family, was highly regarded for his wealth of traditional knowledge. He wrote this version of his island's history for his relatives and children, but the style of the text reflects the education he received at the Protestant mission school at Ohwa (Oa). 'The Book of Luelen' is the fullest account of Ponape's history that has ever been written by a native of that island. Luelen Bernart gives a comprehensive account of Ponape from the time of its creation to the first European contact. Myths and legends interwoven with history and botanical lore provide a rich source of information about this island. Luelen Bernart died near the end of World War II, but the record that he leaves behind gives an insider's view of Ponapean history that will delight all those interested in the Pacific and its people.