Native Hawaiian author Kauakanilehua "Kaua" Māhoe Adams had always dreamed of becoming a published author, and in May, her goal came to life with the release of “An Expanse of Blue,” a story loosely connected to her own that follows a teen’s internal growth and cultural awakening.
Adams grew up in Washington state and now resides in California, though remains connected to the Islands through her father's side of the family.
This month, the young adult novel in verse — or a narrative written using poetry instead of prose — was selected as a Best Book of 2026 by Publishers Weekly.
She told Aloha State Daily that she was shocked when she first received the news, which she saw posted on Instagram and later heard from her editor.
“It never ceases to amaze me that people are reading my book and that they enjoyed it. I am incredibly honored!” she said. “It means everything to me. My dream was always to become a published author but knowing that readers love ‘An Expanse of Blue’ as much as I do is beyond anything I could have hoped for. As a debut author, it's humbling to have my first book named on a list amongst such amazing titles.”
In addition to this recognition, Adams was named as a finalist in September for the 2026 Golden Poppy Book Awards by California Independent Booksellers Alliance, honoring “the most distinguished books written and illustrated by creators who have made California their home,” its website notes.
Publishers Weekly said this about the novel at the time: “Via distinctive and emotionally resonant verse, Adams crafts an evocative story about identity, devotion and belonging.”
She’s had several “pinch me moments” while promoting the book so far this year, she notes, such as the Golden Poppy event. “I got to attend the awards ceremony in person and meet so many lovely authors and booksellers from all over California.”
Last month, Adams went to Hawaiʻi Island as a featured author for the Kona Stories Bookstore Words and Wine Author Event, and also visited Basically Books Hilo, per her Instagram. On Indigenous People’s Day, she donated 100 copies of “An Expanse of Blue” to 9th and 10th graders in Kona.
“Recently, one of my good friends told me her mother was on her fourth read of ʻAn Expanse of Blue’!” she told ASD. “I love that readers of all ages are able to find something for themselves in Aouli's story. It is also such a compliment to hear that someone enjoyed my book so much they read it multiple times.”
When asked what’s come of expanding her network of fellow writers, especially those also sharing Indigenous stories, Adams said, “I have the most amazing community of authors that I am so lucky to be a part of. I don't think I could have navigated the emotional rollercoaster ride of publishing a book without the supportive circle of people I have around me. And many of my closest author friends are Native/Indigenous.”
“The best part of having a strong, Native/Indigenous author community is that I never have to do this alone. I have people in my corner who understand me and the kind of stories I want to put into the world. It's a privilege to always have someone I can call to ask a question, celebrate with, or even just vent to. I am endlessly grateful. If I can give one piece of advice to an aspiring author, it would be to find your people. This is a journey best taken with friends.”
Among other lessons learned through the process, she notes, “I think the most important lesson I've learned throughout this process is that the best way to silence the inner critic as an artist is to focus your energy on creating over comparing.”
Adams is currently working on her next young adult novel and getting through her reading list.
“I had the privilege of reading ‘Not Your Story’ by Meg Eden Kuyatt, which comes out next year. It was amazing and I cannot wait for readers to get their hands on this book,” she said. Next up on my ‘to be read’ is ‘Sunflower Season’ by Danica Nava.”
Heading into the holidays, she’s looking forward to giving herself a break, dancing hula and decorating the house for Christmas with her husband.
“An Expanse of Blue,” published by Heartdrum, is available for purchase through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Bookshop.org, and more including local independent sellers and libraries by request.
Kelsey Kukaua Medeiros can be reached at kelsey@alohastatedaily.com.
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