The Song of Mountain, Forest and Sea – Dargaw Kate (2021)

Three stories of the indigenous tribes Rukai, Atayal, and Pangcah (Amis) take us back to the roots of Taiwanese indigenous culture. Taiwan, also known as Formosa or the Beautiful Island, is located in the Pacific Ocean near the Chinese province of Fujian, between the Philippines and Japan. Here, it is washed by the warm Kuroshio current, which brings rich marine life to its shores. This mountainous island, situated at the boundary of tropical and subtropical climate zones, is not only home to a number of unique endemic species but also to indigenous tribes of Melanesian-Polynesian origin, whose culture grows in close connection with the local nature. The stories of the original inhabitants are intertwined with clouded leopards, black bears, and the feared snakes, such as the rhinoceros viper. The tribes forge their blood ties with them. The headdresses of the chiefs are adorned with the feathers of the Mikado pheasant. The battles fought by the warriors are against merciless Suns or monsters that threaten the tribe's life and can only be overcome with great effort. This richly illustrated book offers a glimpse into the oral traditions of Melanesian-Polynesian tribes and is intended for readers of all ages, from the youngest to the oldest.