Storytelling is one of the hallmark traditions of Pacific Island Peoples. As we transition from orality to literacy, it is imperative that we continue this age-old tradition. In written form. This book is a creative, interactive product of the storytelling experience of the authors. As his saina (elder), Auntie Lo teaches Kiko about his CHamoru heritage. Kiko is a young CHamoru boy, who was born and lives in the State of Washington, but whose heart and imagination thrives in his island home. Kiko’s childhood trips to his beloved Guam have nourished his growing sense of identity and pride in being a descendant of the great seafarers and navigators who made their way to the Marianas archipelago over 3,500 years ago.

When Kiko was six years old, he made one of his visits to Guam with his parents. He and Auntie Lo spent hours chatting about legends, monuments, and significant milestones in Guam’s history. Auntie Lo suggested that they go on an adventure to learn about the taotaomo’na, the First People who arrived on Guam’s shores and established their homeland. They stopped at Gokña, the mass ancestral burial site of people buried in the area where the Nikko Hotel stands today. Kiko was fascinated by the story of the 500 people who were buried at the monument. He then suggested that it would be great if we wrote a book about it so that other children could learn about our history. Hence, our joint endeavor. Our story seeks to connect CHamoru children everywhere with their rich heritage as the people of the land and sea, I Taotao Tåno’ yan Tåsi.