Traditional Maori myths and legends have been retold as contemporary stories in a new collection called Purakau.
Whiti Hereaka and Witi Ihimaera are the co-editors who invited emerging and established Maori writers to put their own spin on well known and loved stories.
One of the more than 20 writers invited to write for the collection is novelist, poet and playwright Apirana Taylor. In his short story "Hine Tai", he brings together a grandmother and her young grandaughter who's reluctant to embrace te reo:
Meanwhile In Whiti's story, the Earth Mother Papatuanuku becomes a woman who loves and fears her wayward sons and errant boyfriend.
Lynn Freeman speaks with Apirana and Whiti, who explains how Witi Ihimaera asked her to work with him on a project they both believe is important:
Purakau is published by Vintage.
