Notes

the writings of Atapo, Paihia, c.1840
written by Fleur Beale.
208 pages
illustrations, map, portraits.
New Zealand author.
Summary: Atapo, a young Maori girl, tells her story, from her capture and slavery as a young child through to her escape to the mission house in the Bay of Islands as a 14-year-old. Here she learns the new ways and language that means she is present at the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. Although born into an important family her capture has meant she has lost her standing in her tribe, but she hopes the new skills she has acquired will mean she can return home with her head held high.
My New Zealand story.