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Salient: Victoria University Students' Paper. Vol. 27, No. 13. 1964.

Valid?

Valid?

They have a valid objection, it appears, in the name of the book. It is giving the impression that the conditions portrayed in the book are the conditions in all pas. Miss Westra noted in our interview that she did not wish to do this—but by mistake she has. The name Pa is broader than just family. However, a note qualifying the meaning of the word is made on the first page.

But none of these objections were adequate to warrant the withdrawal of the book. Even if the photos show something other than desired Western values, it is all balanced against the supreme values of love and happiness, which the Maori has to offer, and the Western world has room to accommodate. If it is argued that the book is reinforcing a stereotype view of the Maori, then the answer must be—maybe, but it is a stereotype being shown in context, being shown contrasted against cherished values! The child who sees the two together will appreciate the Maori more than if he saw the stereotype alone. Surely this is a better educational approach?