"The second half of the twentieth century saw many Pacific people leave their island homes in search of education and opportunity that were otherwise unavailable to them. This Pacific diaspora provided countries like Australia and New Zealand with new cultural experiences, new artists and professionals and new communities. Semisi Ma`ia`i left his Sāmoan home to pursue a career in medicine in New Zealand. His journey took him away from his homeland, but it returned him to his people. His medical practice drew Pacific people from many miles around. He was able to negotiate language and cultural difficulties for his patients, and developed resources to help with their sometimes difficult transition to a more Western-focused country. Eventually he wrote the first Sāmoan dictionary written by a Sāmoan, a forty-year labour of love. In 'Sāmoan Odyssey' Dr Ma`ia`i recounts his journey, the struggles and joys of being part of the diaspora, his family life and views on the world we live in now"--Jacket.