The Bittersweet Journey of This Samoan Boy

Mika Tufuga-Valai
Outskirts Press, Inc. (2008)
ISBN 9781432718558
Reviewed by Dr. Carol Hoyer for Reader Views (5/08)


“The Bittersweet Journey of This Samoan Boy” is about one family’s journey to improve their life, while at the same time trying to maintain their cultural identity. Samoan’s are a very proud people; they do not have a lot of material things, but they do have love for the family, a good work ethic and a very strong tie with their traditions.

Mika Tufuga-Valai’s family worked on a plantation most of their lives. Every child had a responsibility to the family. They lived in poverty, but so did everyone else in their community. Since they didn’t have any experience with other villages they maintained a simple and primitive life. When it came time for the kids to go to school, Mika’s father decided that he wanted better for his children. The family left their homeland and went to Laie in Hawaii.

The remainder of Mika’s story revolves around trying to fit in with other kids in school and social settings, not speaking the language and not having the same customs. Through many trials and tribulations, Mika learns that there is racism and prejudice, which he hadn’t encountered before. He always had to prove himself through fighting, stealing and standing up to bullies. Through his great faith and mentoring of a football coach he makes it through high school and into the world of adulthood.

Mika’s story is one of strength, family honor and wonderful accounts of the Samoan culture. The reader did not realize that many of the Samoans are Latter Day Saints. “The Bittersweet Journey of This Samoan Boy” is a wonderful, captivating read.

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