The Authors
Sam Chen
Writer & Local Guide
Sam is a proud O'ahu resident who has spent years discovering the island's best-kept secrets. From the perfect shave ice spot to hidden beaches that don't appear in guidebooks, Sam's local knowledge runs deep. When not exploring the island, Sam loves sharing stories about Hawaiian culture, practicing 'ōlelo Hawai'i, and enjoying plate lunch with friends.
Robert Chen
Writer & Local Guide
Robert brings a fresh perspective to exploring O'ahu, combining local insights with a passion for cultural storytelling. Together with Sam, Robert helped curate the most authentic experiences and hidden gems that make this guide special. The two authors have collaborated to create something truly meaningful—a love letter to O'ahu that captures the spirit of aloha and shares the authentic island experience with visitors and locals alike.
The Illustrators
Waibun Lee
Illustrator
Waibun brings O'ahu's vibrant landscapes and iconic locations to life with artistic flair and attention to detail. With a deep appreciation for Hawaii's natural beauty and cultural significance, Waibun's illustrations capture the spirit of each location—from the way sunlight hits Diamond Head to the colorful chaos of a local farmers market. Every line is drawn with aloha and a commitment to representing O'ahu authentically.
Emily Lee
Illustrator
Emily Lee's artistic vision shines through in every page of this book. With a talent for capturing both the grand vistas and intimate details that make O'ahu special, Emily creates illustrations that are perfect for coloring while also standing as beautiful art pieces. Emily's work invites readers to slow down, engage with each location, and add their own creative interpretation to their O'ahu journey.
Why a Rooster Guide?
If you've spent any time on O'ahu, you've met the island's unofficial mascots—the wild chickens! These colorful characters roam freely across the island, and we couldn't think of a better guide to represent the free-spirited, adventurous nature of exploring O'ahu. Our Rainbow Rooster embodies the aloha spirit: welcoming, vibrant, and always ready for an adventure!