The Island of Questions: The History of the Easter Islands For Kids

Far out in the Pacific Ocean lies one of the world's most mysterious places—a tiny island filled with giant stone statues that seem to watch everything around them. Who built them? How were they moved? And what secrets still hide beneath the surface of this remote land? This book takes readers on an unforgettable journey to Rapa Nui, better known as Easter Island, where questions are as towering as the statues themselves. From the arrival of the first Polynesian settlers who sailed thousands of miles by canoe, to the challenges of survival on an isolated island, to the incredible traditions that shaped daily life, every page brings the story of the island alive in a way kids can connect with. Readers will explore the fascinating world of the moai—their size, meaning, and the many theories about how they were transported across rough terrain. They'll step into the lives of the Rapa Nui people, learning about their homes, food, myths, and rituals, and discover how their culture changed through times of struggle and contact with outsiders. Along the way, the mysteries that remain—like the undeciphered rongorongo script—invite curious minds to ask their own questions and think like young archaeologists. Perfect for kids ages 7–12, this is a captivating adventure into history, culture, and discovery that shows why this small island continues to amaze the world.