Vailima Prayers

Prayers Written at Vailima were the daily prayers written by famous novelist Robert Louis Stevenson ("Kidnapped," "Treasure Island," "A Child's Garden of Verses") for his family and the villagers who visited the Stevensons' Samoan island home. Known to the islanders as "Tusitala," ("Storyteller"), these prayers were read during evening devotions, which were announced by the call of the sea conch. They were collected and first published after Stevenson's death by his wife. The book includes the original, intimate introduction by Mrs. R. L. Stevenson on their life on the island, and a new biographical and literary commentary on the prayers. Artist Catherine Kanner has designed the book with a Polynesian feel, and has created 21 original linoleum cut illustrations for the edition. 2000 Winner of the Rounce & Coffin Award for Excellence in Book Design.