Product Description CultureShock Hawaii is a refreshing and insightful guide that will help you make Hawaii your home. Affectionately called the 'Rainbow Islands' by Mark Twain, the 50th state of the USA is well known by many but little understood by those who have only surface knowledge of its geography and its people. This book delves into the historical and cultural background of the various ethnic groups on the islands and guides you on how to relate with them, breaking down cultural barriers and fitting into their intricate society. Learn what 'ohana' means to the native Hawaiians, how Confucian teachings influence the values of the Chinese, what to expect at the Filippino Fiesta and Parade, and how to give a banzai toast at a Japanese wedding. Packed with useful advice and insightful tips, the book will help you tap into the practical aspects of living and working here, including how to have barbecues Hawaiian style CultureShock Hawaii is the essential guide that will benefit anyone who wants to survive and succeed on the lovely islands of Hawaii. About the Author Brent Massey is a full-time, professional freelance writer. He lived in Japan for three years and experienced culture shock in Japan and reverse culture shock when returning to the US. He is married to a Japanese woman, so he isn't a stranger to crossing cultural boundaries. In the summer of 2004, he moved from his hometown in Colorado to Hawaii. Living in Hawaii, he was surprised to experience culture shock (again ) and saw the need for a book helping newcomers understand and adapt to the unique customs of Hawaii, which is heavily influenced by Asian culture, especially that of Japan. Brent Massey has a post-bachelorscertificate in Asian Studies, a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science and has done extensive research on Hawaii's culture. In 2003, he was awarded the prestigious Japanese government Monbusho scholarship for his research proposal on foreign culture, international relations and personality type. Brent loves being abroad and has travelled throughout Asia and Europe. Some of the countries he has visited are Italy, Germany, France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore and Myanmar. He is very excited and enthusiastic about CultureShock Hawaii because there is so much cross-cultural information the public has yet to read about living in Hawaii.