This brief but factual sketch of Hawaiian begins by uncovering the fascinating and often controversial history of the language, from its place among the other languages of Polynesia to the unusual problems faced by missionaries in devising an alphabet. With the help of a clear and concise guide to pronunciation, learn the importance of the okina and the kahako and how these marks affect the meaning as well as the pronunciation of words. Helpful vocabulary lists introduce words heard and seen most often in place names, in restaurants, and in Hawaiian songs - including those commonly mispronounced even by lifelong Hawai'i residents such as ma kai and ma uka. Lastly, the author discusses ongoing efforts to preserve Hawaiian as a living language through language-teaching programs.