Witi Tame Ihimaera was born on June 7, 1944, in Gisborne, New Zealand. A renowned Māori novelist and short story writer, he is celebrated for his rich storytelling that explores Māori culture and identity. Ihimaera has been a prominent figure in New Zealand literature, contributing significantly to the preservation and promotion of Māori heritage through his work.
As her beloved grandfather, chief of the Maori tribe of Whangara, New Zealand, struggles to lead in difficult times and to find a male successor, young Kahu is developing a mysterious relationship with whales, particularly the ancient bull whale whose legendary rider was their ancestor.