Potiki by Patricia Grace narrates the story of a Maori community in New Zealand as they resist land developers who attempt to displace them from their sacred land. Through the perspectives of Roimata, Toko, and an unspecified third voice, the novel portrays the community's unwavering connection to their land and the strength found in collective action.

Patricia Grace's Potiki is widely praised for its poetic prose, deep cultural insights, and rich depiction of Maori life. Critics appreciate its blend of political and spiritual themes, though some find its pacing slow and narrative structure challenging. Overall, the novel is lauded for its authenticity and powerful storytelling.

Readers who appreciate Potiki by Patricia Grace are likely drawn to rich narratives that explore indigenous culture, community resilience, and the impacts of colonization. Fans of Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart or Louise Erdrich's Love Medicine will find similar themes and depth in Grace's storytelling.

Contemplative / Emotional / Inspirational / Nostalgic / Bittersweet

**Toko**  
Toko is the youngest child of Roimata and Hemi, and the biological son of Mary. He has special abilities to understand his people's stories and see the future, earning him a unique and respected place in his community.

**Hemi**  
Hemi is Roimata's husband, father of their children, and a key figure in their Maori community, advocating for self-sufficiency and traditional livelihoods.

**Roimata**  
Roimata is Hemi's wife and main narrator of *Toko*, focusing on her roles as mother and community member while supporting Hemi in preserving their traditions.

**Tangimoana (Tangi)**  
Tangi is the second child of Hemi and Roimata, known for her hot temper and defiance. She is outspoken against injustices and supports her family in their struggles.

**Granny Tamihana**  
Granny Tamihana is Hemi's aunt and a symbol of resilience, offering comfort to Mary and Toko and showing strength in adversity.

**James**  
James is the eldest child of Hemi and Roimata and serves as his people's carver, ensuring the continuation of cultural traditions.

**Manu**  
Manu is the youngest child of Hemi and Roimata, known for his sensitivity and close bond with his brother Toko.

**Mary**  
Mary is Hemi's sister and Toko's biological mother, with a suggested learning disability, depicted as a caring but enigmatic figure.

**Matiu and Timoti**  
Matiu and Timoti are Maori descent members who experience life outside their community and eventually align with their roots, assisting against land developers.

**Stan**  
Stan is Hemi's brother and acts as a spokesperson for the community against land developers' efforts.

**Mr. Dolman (Dollarman)**  
Mr. Dolman represents capitalistic values and attempts to persuade the community to develop their land, clashing with their cultural values.

**The Carver**  
The Carver is the symbolic creator of the original meeting house, passing down Maori heritage and knowledge.

**Reuben**  
Reuben is a voice of resistance, leading efforts to reclaim stolen land and supporting the Tamihana family in their fight for justice.

**Rupena**  
Rupena, Reuben's grandfather, inspires the continuation of the struggle against land injustices.

**Joe Billy**  
Joe Billy is a suspected father of Toko, serving as a red herring for his true origins.

**Hoani**  
Hoani is the spiritual leader who provides ceremonial support to the whanau when needed.

- Potiki was first published in 1986 and is a celebrated work highlighting the cultural, political, and social issues faced by the Māori people in New Zealand.
- Patricia Grace, the author of Potiki, was awarded the prestigious Neustadt International Prize for Literature in 2008, recognizing her outstanding contribution to literature.
- Potiki incorporates elements of oral storytelling traditions, reflecting the Māori's rich oral culture and adding layers of depth and authenticity to the narrative.

Patricia Grace

Adult

Novel

Talanoa: Contemporary Pacific Literature

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Teaching Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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Potiki Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1 Prologue-Chapter 3

Potiki Prologue-Chapter 3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-7

Potiki Chapters 4-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-12

Potiki Chapters 8-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 2 Chapters 13-15

Potiki Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-19

Potiki Chapters 16-19 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 20-24

Potiki Chapters 20-24 Summary & Analysis

Part 3 Chapters 25-29

Potiki Chapters 25-29 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Potiki Character Analysis

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Themes

Potiki Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Potiki Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Potiki Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

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Introduction

Potiki Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

Potiki Before Reading

During Reading

Potiki During Reading

After Reading

Potiki After Reading

Potiki

Before You Read

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