Suva Stories - a review

A History of the Capital of Fiji

My arrival at Suva in 1974 was by sea. It was a hot early morning. It has obviously been raining, something I was to learn over the decades was its blessing and its curse. Joske’s Thumb across the harbour, but even before docking a lively market place stood out. It was so compelling, so vibrant that within an hour, I never wanted to leave. That morning, as we arrived, it had been raining.

Rain has long been Suva’s problem. Missionary Lorimor Fison in 1870: ‘The weather has been sadly against the newcomers for it has been raining since they came down, and during the last three weeks have had most dismal weather – not one fine day in 21.’

That quote comes from Suva Stories, A history of the capital of Fiji. Published by the Australian National University, Suva Stories is an absorbing if imperfect read. It is free online.