Fāgogo
An oral story account told at night
that Samoan children looked
forward to after
the day’s chores.
Mostly told by older women, the accounts introduced and reinforced key moral principles, lessons, history, and song.
Aue!
A signal to the narrator of your appreciation, also a sign that you are awake and listening.
Explore The Collective
How “One” Became the First Number
Once upon a time there lived a couple named Sāfea and Falagaua. They had 11 children. The firstborn was Sefulu (Ten).
The Story of Big Sister and Little Sister
This storytime from old Sāmoa features the famous demigod, Tigilau, whose heroic exploits, mischievous shenanigans, legendary voyaging, and prolific lovemaking are recounted throughout Polynesia from the western isles up to Hawaiʻi and down to Aotearoa.