Siva Afi Teine Toa

Book Author & Illustrator Dahila Malaeulu & Darcy Solia
Rights Available World

Teuila is entering her first siva afi (fire dancing) competition and learns about important Samoan cultural values and journeys to the past to find courage and strength. Siva Afi Teine Toa is an empowering children’s book that celebrates the courage, strength, and cultural pride of Pasifika girls through the captivating art of Samoan fire dancing. Following the journey of a young girl determined to master the traditionally male-dominated siva afi, this inspiring story showcases the importance of embracing challenges, breaking barriers, and staying true to one’s identity. Rich with cultural detail and vibrant illustrations, Siva Afi Teine Toa is a heart warming tale of resilience and empowerment, perfect for young readers seeking stories that reflect their cultural heritage and aspirations.

About the Author

Dahlia Malaeulu is an award-winning Pasifika author and publisher, and creator of Mila’s Books—Pasifika children’s stories that help tamaiti (children) feel seen, heard, and valued. A proud Sāmoan New Zealander, Dahlia is passionate about all things Pasifika and founded Mila’s Books, the world’s only all-Pasifika publishing team.

She currently serves on the board of Read NZ Te Pou Muramura, shares Pacific stories with over 10,000 tamaiti across Aotearoa, New Zealand annually, and has received various business, creative, and book industry awards, including New Zealand’s Emerging Publisher of the Year in 2023.

Through Mila’s Books projects, over one hundred first-time Pasifika authors (children, students, educators, parents) have had their stories shared with the world, reflecting Dahlia’s life-long commitment to advancing Pasifika storytelling by and for Pasifika.