Book excerpt: Hawaiian tattoos (kakau) are intriguing, tribally exotic, ancient in origin, enigmatic, culturally meaningful, mysterious, evocative, and eye-catching. They are worn by persons from all walks of lifekumu hula, dancers, chanters, athletes, educators, artists, and security officers. Here is valuable information compiled by Hawaiian culture researcher and educator, P.F. Kwiatkowski, that explores many aspects of Hawaiian tattooingits origins, significance of designs, and their relation to religion, magic, social status, and personal expression. The information delivered is concise and helps dispel some misconceptions regarding the meaning of Hawaiian motifs and the differences between Hawaiian and Polynesian tattoo designs and placement. You will learn the what and why of the usage and the significance of the designs.