This sophisticated picture book is based on a true story. Sophia was a well known guide at Lake Tarawera and provided tours of the famous Pink and White Terraces, acclaimed as the eighth wonder of the world. Nine days before the eruption of Mount Tarawera tourists on Sophia’s canoe claim to have seen a Maori waka on the lake which then vanished. This is described as a Waka Wairua or Spirit Waka said to foretell of major calamity. Mount Tarawera erupted on 10 June 1886, and Sophia’s village of Te Wairoa was almost completely destroyed. Many people took shelter in Sophia’s home which was one of only two buildings left standing while the rest were buried in ash. During the eruption the stunning Pink and White Terraces were completely destroyed. This beautifully illustrated retelling of the story of the Waka Wairua is very well done. The tale is told in a well researched and sensitive way. Information about the author, illustrator and an author note about the story can be found on the last page. ( )