Tina Makereti

Novellist, short story writer, editor and essayist Tina Makereti's new work of fiction, The Mires, tackles some big subjects - identity, racism, intolerance and what happens when that becomes… Audio

The ship founders off Barbados. Hemi and a few others survive, including Song. With Song's help Hemi eventually arrives back in London and is taken in again by the Angus family Audio

On ship Hemi works for the Chinese cook, Song, but soon attracts the violent attention of the chief mate. His solace is in the physical relationship with crew member, Ethan Audio

James blames himself for what has happened to Henry - as does Billy. James decides to take work aboard a ship but, as it happens, Billy has joined the same crew. Audio

At the farewell party for Esme and Ernie, Hemi openly shows his affection for Billy. Henry witnesses the moment, fleeing the scene and into the jaws of tragedy. Audio

The exhibition is a success, but Hemi yearns to spend more time with his new friends, and especially with Billy to whom he is attracted - not just as a friend. Audio

Billy Neptune takes Hemi to the pubs down by the river and introduces him to another side of London life. He meets Billy's girl Henry (Henrietta). Audio

Accused of being a cannibal chief, Hemi responds with a spontaneous warrior dance, a waiata and then a hongi with his accuser. Hemi meets Billy Neptune. Audio

Hemi is astonished by the animals in the London zoo. He makes a great impression as a surprisingly well-educated and polite 'living savage' in the Artist's exhibition. Audio

Hemi arrives at the house of the Artist in London. He makes a strong connection to Miss Angus, the Artist's sister. London is strange, monstrous and wonderful. Audio

The boy arrives in Port Nicholson (Wellington). It's here he decides to call himself James Pōneke. He is impressed by the Artist from London and arranges to travel back to London with him. Audio

James (Hemi) is in his sick bed in a well to do household in London. He begins to tell the story of his short life, recounting his time as a boy in the mission school in Aotearoa Audio

On Thursday we discuss the story Beats of the Pa'u by Maria Samuela. Email us your thoughts on it before 3pm Thursday, and the writer of the best email wins a copy of Sport 45 - a collection of New… Audio