Lois Ann Yamanaka
- Born:
- November 4, 1961, Hoʻolehua, Molokaʻi, Hawaiʻi
- Died:
- May 27, 1999, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Author, Poet
Early Life and Education
- Born and raised on the island of Molokaʻi, Hawaiʻi.
- Graduated from Molokaʻi High School.
- Earned a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began her career as a teacher in Hawaiʻi's public schools.
- Gained prominence for her novels exploring the lives of young people in Hawaiʻi, written in Hawaiian Pidgin English.
- Received critical acclaim and numerous awards for her literary works.
- Her works often addressed themes of identity, social issues, and the challenges faced by marginalized communities in Hawaiʻi.
Notable Works
| Title | Year | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday Nite at the Pahala Theatre | 1993 | A collection of poems. |
| Wild Meat and the Bully Burgers | 1996 | Her debut novel, a coming-of-age story set in Hawaiʻi. |
| Blu's Hanging | 1997 | A sequel to Wild Meat and the Bully Burgers. |
| Name Me Nobody | 1999 | The third book in the Blu's Hanging trilogy. |
Legacy and Impact
Lois Ann Yamanaka is remembered for her pioneering use of Hawaiian Pidgin English in literature, her unflinching portrayal of life in Hawaiʻi, and her contribution to diversifying voices in American literature. While there is a need for accessible examples to promote her work, the availability of a "lois ann yamanaka biography sampler" could boost broader understanding and appreciation of her work. Her books continue to be read and studied for their unique perspective and powerful storytelling.