Ahi: Dawn of Words

AHI Dawn of Words is a unique anthology. Prepare to be surprised and enthralled. It is easy to attend writing events and go home with a head full of ideas. The concept of bringing along, and producing printable work during a writer's hui was an ambitious undertaking - but AHI is proof that it can be done. Te Kāhui Ngā Kaituhi Māori and the Tairāwhiti Writers' Hub Collective melded a four day and week long programme into a 10 day creative fire of words. Experienced international writers like Witi Ihimaera and Paula Morris shared their vast stores of knowledge and hacks with eager learners.

AHI Dawn of Words has new original work from Ihimaera, Sir Haare Wiliams, Paula Morris, Shelley Burne-Field, Tania Roxborogh, R. de Wolf, Taranga Kent, Aaron Compton, Gillian Moon, Hiria Dunning, Miriama Gemmell and a recently published poem from Mikaela Nyman's latest book. Just as exciting are the contributions from emerging and new writers, including rangatahi from all over New Zealand, some publishing for the first time. Kahukura Iosefa was 15 years of age. Others like Elise Sadlier and Nadia Solomon are well on their way to establishing themselves as New Zealand poets. Short stories from Harold Helmbright, Araraina Te Atua, Daniel Hapi, Karen Morris-Denby, Donna Goodacre, Shelley Burne-Field, Steph Julian and R. de Wolf will have you laughing, thinking and crying. The poetry contributions are as diverse and clever as the poets, with pieces in a number of poetic forms. The editing team made space for all genres, choosing inclusion over playing safe. The spiritual setting of Tairāwhiti was the perfect location for the writers. Everyone included in the book attended at least one event. The cover features original artwork from emerging teenage artist and surfing sensation, Te Waiotu Fairlie.