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Pacific serials
reviews
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REGIONAL SURVEY J
Pacific Serials Russell T. Clement PACIFIC SERIALS
Bulletin de la Societe des Etudes Oceaniennes. Glimpses o f Micronesia and the Western Pacific. Journal de la Societe des Oceanistes. The Journal o f Pacific History. The Journal o f the Polynesian Society. Mana. Micronesica. Micronesian Reporter. New Pacific Magazine. Oceania. The Pacific Ocean is the earth's largest ocean. It accounts for over half of the world's total water and covers about onethird o f its entire surface. Archaeologists believe that man first entered the Pacific some 40,000 years ago. By sailing and drifting towards the east, early Pacific Islanders accomplished the greatest feat of maritime colonization in human history. The vestiges of oceanic navigation skills (learned by essentially stone age cultures) which remain today continue to astound scientists. By around 1200 B.C. both Tonga and Samoa had been reached. From this area, often referred to as the Polynesian hearth or homeland, all o f far-flung Polynesia was settled by about 400 A.D. Europeans became enthralled with the Pacific through early voyaging accounts o f handsome, romantic savages living carefree lives in tropical paradise. The world's big powers began land grabbing in the 19th century and their influence is still widely felt in this vast region. World War II also left lasting changes. However, foreign dominance in the Pacific finally appears to be declining. Since the 1950s tiny island groups and nations have taken important steps toward becoming more independent and self-governing. Almost every year a new island group shirks off foreign claim, selects the native name, and establishes independence. There is much debate over the benefits and problems this produces. Fortunately, much o f the mystique and romance o f the Pacific lingers today. What impresses outsiders are the immense expanses of ocean, its friendly peoples, beautiful coral reefs, and exquisite scenery which draw increasingly large numbers of visitors. And, pleasantly so, much o f its pristine beauty and unique potential remains intact. Today's Oceanic societies are extremely diverse. Lifestyles change from island to island as each group struggles to balance complex ancient traditions with modern technologies and modern societies. Indigenous Oceanic cultures have a rich and sophisticated b o d y o f oral literature and traditions. Some o f this has been preserved in one fashion or another through writing. Early missionaries and explorers provided observations, some history, and more importantly, set orthography for Pacific Clement is Head of the Bibliographic Department, Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University. He is co-author of Who's Who in Oceania, 1980-81 and contributor to the His-
Pacific Business News. Pacific Historical Review. Pacific Insects. Pacific Islands Monthly. Pacific Perspective. Pacific Science. Pacific Studies. Pacific Travel News. Pacific Viewpoint. Samoan Pacific Law Journal. South Pacific Bulletin. languages; anthropologists and ethnographers began systematic studies in the late nineteenth century. These scholars have been extremely active in publishing and many Pacific serials go back over 50 years. My purpose in writing this review is to discuss the most important serials being published in or about the Pacific. Newspapers from the various island presses will be treated in a separate article. Likewise, Australian and New Zealand titles will be reserved for future review. This article focuses on current English and French language serials dealing with the Pacific in general including anthropological, historical, scientific, business, and general-interest publications.
Bulletin de la Societe des Etudes Oceaniennes. 1917--. Q= $15.00. Societe des etudes oceaniennes, Ancien musee de Pape'ete. B.P. 110, Pape'ete, Tahiti. Indexed (1917--1976) by Robert D. Craig (Laie, Hawaii: Institute for Polynesian Studies, 1977). This French Polynesian publication is one of the oldest serials in and about the Pacific. The Bulletin has been pub~ lishing research on Pacific cultures and peoples for over 60 years. It is entirely in French and the islands of French Polynesia appear to receive the lion's share of its attention. The articles are well written and most are of general interest. Occasionally a technical or very scholarly paper will be published, but these are rare. Each issue contains about six articles although sometimes the entire Bulletin will be devoted to one long paper. Books are reviewed. It is not lavishly printed but does contain illustrations and sometimes color plates. The Societe is one o f the most active organizations in the Pacific. For many years noted Pacific scholar Patrick O'Reilly wrote and edited the Bulletin. An excellent anthropological, historical, and linguistic journal, it is recommended for serious Pacific students who read French.
Glimpses of" Micronesia and the Western Pacific. 1974-- . Q. $9.00. Glimpses of Guam, Inc., P. O. Box 3191, Agana, Guam 96910. Ed.: Ruth Ann Becker. Circ.: 10,000. Glimpses is a regional interest magazine which appeals to the general reader. It is a slick publication which contains numerous photographs (some in color), and is inundated by advertisements. Its uniqueness lies in its focus: the areas
torical Dictionary of Oceania. SERIALS REVIEW
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covered are Guam and the tiny, exotic coral atolls of Micronesia. A good travel magazine, Glimpses presents articles that are written and illustrated to be easily read and enjoyed. They deal with such adventurous topics as the perils (and miracles) of island medicine, sunken ships in the Truk lagoon, the plight of Micronesian sea turtles, and so forth. There are also wellwritten articles about island lifestyles, description and travel accounts, and current problems such as nuclear experiments and waste disposal. Glimpses attempts to put the reader on location by introducing local personalities and situations. It also publishes accounts of important historical events and frequently discusses possible futures tbr this fascinating area. While Glimpses would be read in any library, it is a particularly good title where travel and tourism interests run high.
Journal de la Societe des Oceanistes. 1943-- . S--A. $25.00. Societe des Oceanistes, Musee de l'Homme. Paris 75116, France. ISSN 0300-9538. This French serial is an important journal in the Pacific area. It is published by the famous Museum of Man in Paris and includes original historical and ethnographical research from its active Society members. Each issue runs about 100 pages and is filled with important articles dealing with all areas o f the Pacific. Particularly interesting are its attention to remote islands and studies of recent field work. Issues are sometimes devoted to the study of one specific culture or island group. It reviews books and shares Society news. From time to time an article or b o o k review will be published in English. This Journal is written chiefly by French Pacific scholars and covers many areas untouched by English serials.
The Journal of Pacific History. 1 9 6 6 - . S--A. $17.00. Australian National University, Box 4, Canberra, A.C.T., Australia 2600. Indexed: Combined Retrospective Index Sets; Curr. Cont.; Hist.Abstr.; Hum.Ind.; S.S.C.L Ed.: W.N. Gunson and Deryck A. Scarr. Circ.: 1,000. ISSN 0022--3344. The Journal of Pacific History is a basic academic serial which studies the history of man in the Pacific Islands. It deals specifically with economic, political, religious, and cultural history and also includes scholarly essays on anthropology, archaeology, and prehistoric of the region. Each issue runs about 150 pages and contains three to six well-researched papers. This is a well-respected forum for new research and it draws foremost Pacific scholars. The Journal of Pacific History occasionally includes a section for important unpublished manuscripts ("Notes and Documents") and surveys of archival repositories throughout the world which house Pacific materials. Around six to ten new books are reviewed in each issue. Important annual features include a section entitled "Current Developments in the Pacific" and a detailed, yeariy bibliography o f current publications. The bibliography is sometimes published and distributed separately. The Journal of" Pacific History is well-edited and makes a solid contribution to knowledge o f the Pacific. The Journal of" the Polynesian Society. 1892-- . Q. $30.00. The Editor, Journal o f the Polynesian Society, Anthropology Department, University o f Auckland, Private Bag, Auckland, New Zealand. Indexed: Curr.Cont.; N.Z.Per. Ed.: Judith Huntsman. ISSN 0032--4000. Reprints (volumes 1 to 50) are available from Johnson Reprint Corporation. F o r nearly 90 years The Journal of the Polynesian Society has provided "a major forum for discussion o f the history, ethnology, physical anthropology, sociology, archaeology and linguistics of the New Zealand Maori people and other Pacific Island peoples." This is the pioneer o f scholarly journals in and on the Pacific. The Journal o f the Polynesian Society has made an enormous contribution to man's understanding of this region. An examination of issues through the years yields
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the research o f top Pacific scholars since the nineteenth century. Among many others, the Journal has published articles by such prominent Pacific researchers as W.D. Alexander, Elsdon Best, Peter S. Buck, Raymond Firth, Douglas Oliver, Kenneth P. Emory, S.H. Elbert, H.E. Maude, Margaret Mead, W.J. Phillipps, C.A. Sharp, H.D. Skinner, and S.P. Smith. A useful 75-year index was published b y the Society in 1969. Admission to the Society is b y election but others can subscribe to the Journal. Each issue begins with "Notes and News" about the Society. This is followed by t~vo to five long articles on all aspects o f Pacific history, and so forth. Much o f the most vital, new research is presented tbr the first time in this journal. Articles are followed by several "Shorter Communications" which are research notes, previously unpublished manuscripts, biographies, and profiles of various repositories. The Journal of the Polynesian Society does one of the most thorough jobs o f reviewing and listing new publications. Reviews are lengthy and critical, and this section often takes up to 50 pages. Many could serve as essays in their own right. Highly recommended for academic libraries.
Mana. 1976- . S--A. $6.00. The South Pacific Creative Arts Society, P.O. Box 5083, Suva, Fiji. Mana's subtitle is "A South Pacific Journal o f Language and Literature." This relatively new little magazine deals exclusively with Polynesian and other Pacific Islands literature. It is very native-oriented and stands alone in publishing and promoting Polynesian writing. Mana, which refers to the Oceanic concept of godly power and authority, contains about 75 pages o f critical essays on South Pacific literature, poetry, language research, and bibliographic and reference information. Some issues are devoted to writings from different island groups such as the Solomon Islands or Samoa or Cook Islands. Besides the essays, short stories, plays, poetry, songs, and dances, Mana is illustrated with native wood cuts and carvings. Its editors vary with content. Albert Wendt, probably the foremost native writer in Polynesia, is a frequent editor and contributor. The South Pacific Creative Arts Society is associated with the University of the South Pacific in Suva, Fiji. Mana publishes the best creative writing done by Pacific peoples and is thus an excellent choice for libraries interested in ethnic or regional literature.
Micronesica. 1964- . S--A. $8.00 individuals; $12.00 institutions. Graduate School and Research, Box EK, University of Guam, Agana, Guam 96910. Indexed: BioLAbstr.; Abstr. Anthropol. Ed.: Charles E. Birkeland. Circ.: 550. ISSN 0026-279X. Micronesiea calls itself "a forum for original research in the fields o f physical and social anthropology, archaeology, linguistics, and ethnology; systematic and ecological botany and zoology, marine sciences, and related disciplines concerned primarily with Micronesia and adjacent regions." In other words, this is a scholarly serial with a biological emphasis. Its articles are arranged under categories such as Geology, Anthropology, and Biology. Most of the focus is on Guam and the tiny coral atolls of Micronesia. The articles are detailed and often include maps, graphs, and illustrations. Its contributors are recognized Pacific scientists. An excellent feature is its abstracts. Each article is abstracted and these summaries are often published in major foreign languages. Micronesica also carries book reviews. It is sometimes behind schedule. A good choice for large research libraries with scientific clientele.
Micronesian Reporter. 1951-- . Q. $4.00. Public Information Office, Trust Territory of the Pacific, Saipan, Mariana Islands 96950. Ed.: Bonifacio Basilius. Circ.: 5,300. ISSN 0026-2781.
U.S. Trust Territory officials produce and publish this quarterly look at life and current affairs in Micronesia. Each issue contains six to ten articles on the agency's activities, history of the area, problems and progress, and political affairs. Most of the articles are written by Trust Territory personnel. Micronesian Reporter, like most other governmentsponsored serials, is always optimistic in tone. Advancements in Micronesian education and lifestyles are frequently reported. The historical articles are usually very good. Regular columns include "This Quarter's Worth" which is the editor's introductory page, "Who's Who" which gives biographies o f the issue's contributors, and a regular interview with an important public official or other Micronesian leader. It is widely read and is particularly important in monitoring the recent trend towards territorial independence. Recommended for its price and fine coverage o f the area.
o f the space in each issue, Pacific Business News also includes information about the South Pacific and East-West relations. Syndicated columns are by Victor Riesel, Milton Moskowitz, Jason Lembeck, Arthur Hoppe, Jenkin L. Jones, and other well-known financial forecasters and economists. Regular features cover upcoming seminars and workshops, bankruptcies and foreclosures, new building permits, a business calendar, public hearings o f business import, real estate, and an historical column entitled "Yesterday's Ledger." Pacific Business News includes advertising and is heavily illustrated with both color and black-and-white photographs. It is extremely informative and much more current than other serials in the business area.
New Pacific Magazine. 1976- . Bi-M. $7.50; $9.00 U.S. Main-
& Life; Guide to Reviews o f Books from and about Hispanic America. Ed.: Norris Hundley, Jr. Circ.: 1,850. ISSN 0030--
land. The New Pacific Publishing Company, P.O. Box 25488, Honolulu, HI 96825. Ed.: Phyllis Jabar. Circ.: 12,000. ISSN 0192--2408. Similar in format to the older and more widely read Pacific Islands Monthly, New Pacific publishes articles of general interst about the important political and economic' happenings throughout the Pacific. New Pacific Magazine is less tourist oriented than most general-interest titles and contains more news and current events. Sometimes issues will focus on one major event such as "Nuclear Nightmare in the Pacific" or "Island Independence" and publish commentary and editorials along with longer reports. There are numerous regular features in New Pacific. Besides the usual editor's page, news briefs, and b o o k review columns, there are also features on Pacific lore, Island recipes, yachting, sports, and new technological innovations in the Pacific region. Important Island leaders are frequently interviewed. There are also some see-and-do types o f articles but the trend is on Island affairs, not expressly tourism. New Pacific contains much localized advertising. Given its informative, newsy focus, it is an excellent monthly update on Pacific activities.
Oceania. 1930--. Q. $18.00 Australian; $20.50 U.S. University o f Sydney, Sydney, N.S.W. 2006, Australia. Indexed: Aus. P.A.LS.; Soc.Sci.Ind.; SSCI. Ed.: Peter Lawrence. Circ.: 1,200. ISSN 0029-8077. Microfilm available from University Microfilms International, 300 North Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Order number C6858. Oceania is one o f the oldest and most respected academic journals in the Pacific. Its subtitle declares it "a journal devoted to the study of the indigenous peoples o f Australia, Melanesia, Micronesia, Indonesia, and the Philippines." For over 50 years its main interest has been social and cultural anthropology in these areas. Each issue includes four to six articles on subjects ranging from mythology and ritual to politics and economics. The articles are technical and scholarly and its contributors are top Pacific scholars. There are also signed book reviews (10 to 20 per issue) and a list of publications received. Oceania is designed for major libraries and subject specialists. It is generally more technical than The Jour-
nal o f the Polynesian Society. Pacific Business News. 1963-- . W. $27.00. Pacific Business News, P.O. Box 833, Honolulu, HI 96808. Ed.: George Mason. Circ.: 9,500. This weekly tabloid gives broad coverage o f business information throughout the Pacific region. It is issued every Monday and contains about 50 pages o f general business news, real estate transactions, court litigation and judgments, international business, new business ventures, and tax information. Although business matters in Hawaii receive about 70 percent
Pacific Historical Review. 1932-- . Q. $10.00 individuals; $18.00 institutions. University of California Press, Berkeley, CA 94720. Indexed: SSCI; Hist.Abstr.; Hum.Ind.; Amer.Hist.
8684. Microfilm available from University Microfilms International, 300 North Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Order number C303. Back issues available from A.M.S. Reprint Company and the University of California Press. This publication of the Pacific Coast Branch of the American Historical Association is "A journal devoted to the history of American expansionism to the Pacific and beyond, and to the postfrontier developments of the twentieth-century American West." Although two or even three issues may come and go without mentioning the Pacific Islands area, occasionally an excellent article will be published on American affairs in Oceania. Most of its scholarly articles are related to Western Americana. Others treat American expansion and relations with Asia. The Pacific Islands lie between and, unfortunately, are only occasionally discussed. Pacific Historical Review also carries lengthy book reviews. Although it is limited in Pacific Islands research, it is extremely well-edited and an invaluable journal for study of the broad area.
Pacific Insects. 1959--. Q. $12.00 individuals; $18.00 institutions. Department of Entomology, Bishop Museum, P.O. Box 6037, Honolulu, HI 96818. Indexed: Biol.Abstr.; Chem. Abstr.; Excerp.Med.; Rev.Appl.Entomol. Ed.: JoAnn M. Tenorio. Circ.: 350. ISSN 0030-8714. Microfilm available from University Microfilms International, 300 North Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Order number C 10398. This extremely specialized journal goes several steps further than Pacific Science by concentrating on insects in Oceania. Subtitled "Organ of the program 'Zoogeography and Evolution o f Pacific Insects,' " this highly scientific serial is published by Hawaii's prestigious Bishop Museum. Needless to say, the research published in Pacific Insects is very technical and intended only for scientists in the field. Charts, tables, and illustrations are included with many of the articles. Recommended for major research libraries with particular interests in entomology.
Pacific Islands Monthly. 1930-- . M. $18.00. Pacific Publications (Australian) Ptd. Ltd., Box 3408 GPO, Sydney, N.S.W., Australia 2001. Self-indexed. Ed.: Angus Smales. Circ.: 11,000. ISSN 0030--8722. PIM is the grand old dame of popular Pacific publications. It was founded by Australian R.W. Robson in 1930 and has been a success ever since. After 50 years its coverage of current Pacific affairs remains unparalleled. PIM contains about 75 pages of news and information in about 15 regular columns, numerous one-page reports on activities in different island groups, and five to ten well-written feature articles. Island politics and governments are given extensive coverage. Some of the more unique regular columns include news about
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visiting yachts, shipping schedules, Pacific stamps, and new publications from island presses. It includes local advertising and is heavily illustrated. Pacific Islands Monthly also publishes important reference books from its mail order bookstore. Its Pacific Islands Year Book is a must for almost any library reference collection. Several important island personalities and leaders are interviewed in each issue and current events are given first priority. Its editors are very experienced (PIM is always on time) and its reputation draws the best Pacific writers. Through the years PIM has been the basic spokesman for island communities. It is highly recommended. If libraries can afford only one general-interest magazine on the Pacific, this would make an excellent choice.
Pacific Perspective. 1972-- . S--A. $8.00. The South Pacific Social Sciences Association, P.O. Box 5083, Suva, Fiji. Ed.: Ron Crocombe and Asesela Ravuvu. ISSN 0379--525X. The South Pacific Social Sciences Association was formed in 1972 "to promote interest and disseminate information in the social sciences in the South P a c i f i c . . . its primary aim is to exchange views and findings in the economic, social, political, historical, and related fields with, or concerned with the South Pacific." Pacific Perspective is a kind of regionalAtlantic Monthly wherein native writers express concerns o f life in today's Pacific. It is well-edited and draws heavily on students and faculty at the University of the South Pacific for articles and news. Each issue contains about 50 pages and eight or so articles. The articles are usually of general interest and many issues follow a common theme - women in the Pacific, economic futures, and new independent governments were treated recently. Besides some academic research there are many "this is how I feel" types of articles written by informed native Pacific Islanders about change or exploitation. There are also several book reviews and announcements in each issue. Unfortunately, Pacific Perspective is often up to one year behind on its publishing schedule. It is never pedantic and highly recommended for its insider's viewpoint - something heard much too seldom from many Pacific serials.
Pacific Science. 1947-- . Q. $25.00. The University Press o f Hawaii, 2840 Kolowalu Street, Honolulu, HI 96822. Indexed:
Biol.Abstr.; Chem.A bstr.; Geog.Abstr.; MineraLAbstr.; Ocean. Abstr.; Pollut.Abstr. Ed.: E. Alison Kay. Circ.: 900. ISSN 0030-8870. Microfilm available from University Microfilms International, 300 North Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Order number C1134. Pacific Science is a high-level scientific journal "devoted to the biological and physical sciences o f the Pacific region." It publishes original scientific research and is not intended for the layman. Its articles (8 to 12 per issue) deal with all types of marine, animal, and plant life found in the Pacific. Occasionally, a somewhat general-interest article will appear ("Sandalwood in the Cook Islands" and "Avian Records from Easter Island" are recent examples), but the majority of article titles are littered with Latin names and appear extremely technical. Pacific Science includes many illustrations, graphs, and tables but lacks book reviews. However specialized its appeal, over the years Pacific Science has done a superb job of publishing important new scientific findings.
world. Many European writers have appeared in Pacific Studies as well as several foremost Russian scholars. Issues run about 100 pages. Besides the four to eight articles, Pacific Studies also publishes numerous book reviews (up to 20 per issue) and a list of books received. Guest editors contribute to a section called "Editor's F o r u m " which is usually the text of an important speech on Oceania. Its printing and layout are attractive. Considering the quality and price, this title makes an excellent addition to the world of scholarly communication in and about the Pacific.
Pacific Travel News.
1 9 5 7 - . 10/year (S--M in June and December). $18.00. Pacific Travel News, 274 Brannan St., San Francisco, CA 94107. Ed.: Phyllis Elving. Circ. : 23,000. ISSN 0030--8951. Pacific Travel News is the official publication of the Pacific Area Travel Association. One o f the older traveloriented titles, Pacific Travel News makes good general interest reading. It is filled with travel and tourism advertisements and information. Association news takes a minimal amount of space. The magazine begins with a column entitled "Pacific Currents" which gives brief news accounts of important information for travel agents and others in the Pacific tourism industry. The main section is made up o f several feature articles which extol and lavishly illustrate the beauties (and profits to be made) of various Pacific islands, cities, and nations. Several regular columns on travel news in the various countries are interspersed. Since the scope o f Pacific Travel News is very broad, it also contains information on Asian destinations. Designed for travel agents and the industry, this nicely-illustrated serial has stood the test o f time and has a wide readership.
Pacific Viewpoint. 1960-- . S--A. $8.50. Business Manager, Information & Publications Section, Victoria University of Wellington, Private Bag, Wellington, New Zealand. Ed.: R.F. Watters. Circ.: 1,000. ISSN 0030-8978. Microfilm available from University Microfilms International, 300 North Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Order number C 1903. According to its editors, "Pacific Viewpoint seeks to bring Geography into the mainstream o f the social sciences by publishing the research of geographers, historians, economists, sociologists and anthropologists concerned with the systematic, regional and theoretical aspects of economic growth and social change in the developed and developing societies; by providing information and documentation on relevant topics." F o r the last 20 years Pacific Viewpoint has been doing this well. It is a multidisciplinary journal devoted to academic research in nearly all areas o f Pacific studies. The emphasis is on current trends and problems. Articles on topics such as tourism, island economies, neo-colonialism, the modernization of traditional cultures, and internal migration occur frequently. Four or five articles are presented in each issue. This title shows careful editing. The articles are academic yet highly readable, and the subjects treated are of interest to a wide range o f Pacific students and scholars. Contributors are generally from the South Pacific with Australian and New Zealand researchers well represented. Pacific Viewpoint publishes long reviews of important regional publications. It is recommended for its readability and timely articles.
Pacific Studies. 1977- . S--A. $5.00. Institute for Polynesian Studies, Brigham Young University--Hawaii Campus, Laie, HI 96762. Ed.: Robert D. Craig. Circ.: 1,000. ISSN 0275-3596. Published twice yearly by the Institute for Polynesian Studies, this new journal contains scholarly articles on Pacific history, anthropology, archaeology, and linguistics. It has been well-received in the academic community and is particularly important in publishing Pacific research from around the
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Samoan Pacific Law Journal. 1 9 7 3 - . T--A. $15.00. William M. Grant & Sons, Inc., Grant Building, 3011 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, F L 33510. Ed.: Richard E. Damon. Despite its Florida distributor, Samoan Pacific Law Journal is published by the American Samoa Bar Association located in Pago Pago, American Samoa. This law journal fills a real gap in providing information about Pacific legal affairs. It is modestly typed (not typeset) and each issue begins with a
directory o f the entire membership with addresses o f Association members. Professional and local news follow on the next four to six pages. The bulk o f the journal is made up o f two parts: three to four long articles dealing with both traditional and modern legal systems in the Pacific, and a section which summarizes important recent cases and decisions of regional interest. Some of the articles are very technical while others are historical, sociological, and even anthropological. The Samoan Pacific Law Journal contains about 120 pages per issue and like many Pacific serials, is usually behind on its publishing schedule. Its uniqueness and variety make it a good choice for major law libraries and others interested in the Pacific area.
South Pacific Bulletin. 1 9 5 1 - . Q. $5.00. Secretary-General, South Pacific Commission, B.P. D5, Noumea Cedex, New Caledonia. Indexed: Biol.Abstr. Ed.: Kevin Earl. Circ.: 3,000 (English edition) and 900 (French edition). ISSN 0038-349X. The South Pacific Bulletin is the official journal of the South Pacific Commission formed in the late 1940s to improve the quality of life among native Pacific Islanders. Over the years it has sponsored much research and many publications about health care, agriculture, fishing, and general public welfare. Its Bulletin focuses on typical island opportunities and problems such as fishing and aquaculture, raising bananas, good nutrition, tooth decay, and long-term development o f the region. Each issue carries about ten articles on timely island topics. The articles are written for general readers and include many black-and-white illustrations. SPC news is also included. The Commission promotes health care and economic improvements through numerous seminars and workshops. These are advertised in the Bulletin and accounts o f successful ones are also published. It is frequently behind on its publishing schedule. This is an inexpensive, grass-roots look at life in the South Pacific.
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& recommendations
REGIONAL SURVEY J
Pacific Serials Russell T. Clement PACIFIC SERIALS
Bulletin de la Societe des Etudes Oceaniennes. Glimpses o f Micronesia and the Western Pacific. Journal de la Societe des Oceanistes. The Journal o f Pacific History. The Journal o f the Polynesian Society. Mana. Micronesica. Micronesian Reporter. New Pacific Magazine. Oceania. The Pacific Ocean is the earth's largest ocean. It accounts for over half of the world's total water and covers about onethird o f its entire surface. Archaeologists believe that man first entered the Pacific some 40,000 years ago. By sailing and drifting towards the east, early Pacific Islanders accomplished the greatest feat of maritime colonization in human history. The vestiges of oceanic navigation skills (learned by essentially stone age cultures) which remain today continue to astound scientists. By around 1200 B.C. both Tonga and Samoa had been reached. From this area, often referred to as the Polynesian hearth or homeland, all o f far-flung Polynesia was settled by about 400 A.D. Europeans became enthralled with the Pacific through early voyaging accounts o f handsome, romantic savages living carefree lives in tropical paradise. The world's big powers began land grabbing in the 19th century and their influence is still widely felt in this vast region. World War II also left lasting changes. However, foreign dominance in the Pacific finally appears to be declining. Since the 1950s tiny island groups and nations have taken important steps toward becoming more independent and self-governing. Almost every year a new island group shirks off foreign claim, selects the native name, and establishes independence. There is much debate over the benefits and problems this produces. Fortunately, much o f the mystique and romance o f the Pacific lingers today. What impresses outsiders are the immense expanses of ocean, its friendly peoples, beautiful coral reefs, and exquisite scenery which draw increasingly large numbers of visitors. And, pleasantly so, much o f its pristine beauty and unique potential remains intact. Today's Oceanic societies are extremely diverse. Lifestyles change from island to island as each group struggles to balance complex ancient traditions with modern technologies and modern societies. Indigenous Oceanic cultures have a rich and sophisticated b o d y o f oral literature and traditions. Some o f this has been preserved in one fashion or another through writing. Early missionaries and explorers provided observations, some history, and more importantly, set orthography for Pacific Clement is Head of the Bibliographic Department, Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University. He is co-author of Who's Who in Oceania, 1980-81 and contributor to the His-
Pacific Business News. Pacific Historical Review. Pacific Insects. Pacific Islands Monthly. Pacific Perspective. Pacific Science. Pacific Studies. Pacific Travel News. Pacific Viewpoint. Samoan Pacific Law Journal. South Pacific Bulletin. languages; anthropologists and ethnographers began systematic studies in the late nineteenth century. These scholars have been extremely active in publishing and many Pacific serials go back over 50 years. My purpose in writing this review is to discuss the most important serials being published in or about the Pacific. Newspapers from the various island presses will be treated in a separate article. Likewise, Australian and New Zealand titles will be reserved for future review. This article focuses on current English and French language serials dealing with the Pacific in general including anthropological, historical, scientific, business, and general-interest publications.
Bulletin de la Societe des Etudes Oceaniennes. 1917--. Q= $15.00. Societe des etudes oceaniennes, Ancien musee de Pape'ete. B.P. 110, Pape'ete, Tahiti. Indexed (1917--1976) by Robert D. Craig (Laie, Hawaii: Institute for Polynesian Studies, 1977). This French Polynesian publication is one of the oldest serials in and about the Pacific. The Bulletin has been pub~ lishing research on Pacific cultures and peoples for over 60 years. It is entirely in French and the islands of French Polynesia appear to receive the lion's share of its attention. The articles are well written and most are of general interest. Occasionally a technical or very scholarly paper will be published, but these are rare. Each issue contains about six articles although sometimes the entire Bulletin will be devoted to one long paper. Books are reviewed. It is not lavishly printed but does contain illustrations and sometimes color plates. The Societe is one o f the most active organizations in the Pacific. For many years noted Pacific scholar Patrick O'Reilly wrote and edited the Bulletin. An excellent anthropological, historical, and linguistic journal, it is recommended for serious Pacific students who read French.
Glimpses of" Micronesia and the Western Pacific. 1974-- . Q. $9.00. Glimpses of Guam, Inc., P. O. Box 3191, Agana, Guam 96910. Ed.: Ruth Ann Becker. Circ.: 10,000. Glimpses is a regional interest magazine which appeals to the general reader. It is a slick publication which contains numerous photographs (some in color), and is inundated by advertisements. Its uniqueness lies in its focus: the areas
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covered are Guam and the tiny, exotic coral atolls of Micronesia. A good travel magazine, Glimpses presents articles that are written and illustrated to be easily read and enjoyed. They deal with such adventurous topics as the perils (and miracles) of island medicine, sunken ships in the Truk lagoon, the plight of Micronesian sea turtles, and so forth. There are also wellwritten articles about island lifestyles, description and travel accounts, and current problems such as nuclear experiments and waste disposal. Glimpses attempts to put the reader on location by introducing local personalities and situations. It also publishes accounts of important historical events and frequently discusses possible futures tbr this fascinating area. While Glimpses would be read in any library, it is a particularly good title where travel and tourism interests run high.
Journal de la Societe des Oceanistes. 1943-- . S--A. $25.00. Societe des Oceanistes, Musee de l'Homme. Paris 75116, France. ISSN 0300-9538. This French serial is an important journal in the Pacific area. It is published by the famous Museum of Man in Paris and includes original historical and ethnographical research from its active Society members. Each issue runs about 100 pages and is filled with important articles dealing with all areas o f the Pacific. Particularly interesting are its attention to remote islands and studies of recent field work. Issues are sometimes devoted to the study of one specific culture or island group. It reviews books and shares Society news. From time to time an article or b o o k review will be published in English. This Journal is written chiefly by French Pacific scholars and covers many areas untouched by English serials.
The Journal of Pacific History. 1 9 6 6 - . S--A. $17.00. Australian National University, Box 4, Canberra, A.C.T., Australia 2600. Indexed: Combined Retrospective Index Sets; Curr. Cont.; Hist.Abstr.; Hum.Ind.; S.S.C.L Ed.: W.N. Gunson and Deryck A. Scarr. Circ.: 1,000. ISSN 0022--3344. The Journal of Pacific History is a basic academic serial which studies the history of man in the Pacific Islands. It deals specifically with economic, political, religious, and cultural history and also includes scholarly essays on anthropology, archaeology, and prehistoric of the region. Each issue runs about 150 pages and contains three to six well-researched papers. This is a well-respected forum for new research and it draws foremost Pacific scholars. The Journal of Pacific History occasionally includes a section for important unpublished manuscripts ("Notes and Documents") and surveys of archival repositories throughout the world which house Pacific materials. Around six to ten new books are reviewed in each issue. Important annual features include a section entitled "Current Developments in the Pacific" and a detailed, yeariy bibliography o f current publications. The bibliography is sometimes published and distributed separately. The Journal of" Pacific History is well-edited and makes a solid contribution to knowledge o f the Pacific. The Journal of" the Polynesian Society. 1892-- . Q. $30.00. The Editor, Journal o f the Polynesian Society, Anthropology Department, University o f Auckland, Private Bag, Auckland, New Zealand. Indexed: Curr.Cont.; N.Z.Per. Ed.: Judith Huntsman. ISSN 0032--4000. Reprints (volumes 1 to 50) are available from Johnson Reprint Corporation. F o r nearly 90 years The Journal of the Polynesian Society has provided "a major forum for discussion o f the history, ethnology, physical anthropology, sociology, archaeology and linguistics of the New Zealand Maori people and other Pacific Island peoples." This is the pioneer o f scholarly journals in and on the Pacific. The Journal o f the Polynesian Society has made an enormous contribution to man's understanding of this region. An examination of issues through the years yields
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the research o f top Pacific scholars since the nineteenth century. Among many others, the Journal has published articles by such prominent Pacific researchers as W.D. Alexander, Elsdon Best, Peter S. Buck, Raymond Firth, Douglas Oliver, Kenneth P. Emory, S.H. Elbert, H.E. Maude, Margaret Mead, W.J. Phillipps, C.A. Sharp, H.D. Skinner, and S.P. Smith. A useful 75-year index was published b y the Society in 1969. Admission to the Society is b y election but others can subscribe to the Journal. Each issue begins with "Notes and News" about the Society. This is followed by t~vo to five long articles on all aspects o f Pacific history, and so forth. Much o f the most vital, new research is presented tbr the first time in this journal. Articles are followed by several "Shorter Communications" which are research notes, previously unpublished manuscripts, biographies, and profiles of various repositories. The Journal of the Polynesian Society does one of the most thorough jobs o f reviewing and listing new publications. Reviews are lengthy and critical, and this section often takes up to 50 pages. Many could serve as essays in their own right. Highly recommended for academic libraries.
Mana. 1976- . S--A. $6.00. The South Pacific Creative Arts Society, P.O. Box 5083, Suva, Fiji. Mana's subtitle is "A South Pacific Journal o f Language and Literature." This relatively new little magazine deals exclusively with Polynesian and other Pacific Islands literature. It is very native-oriented and stands alone in publishing and promoting Polynesian writing. Mana, which refers to the Oceanic concept of godly power and authority, contains about 75 pages o f critical essays on South Pacific literature, poetry, language research, and bibliographic and reference information. Some issues are devoted to writings from different island groups such as the Solomon Islands or Samoa or Cook Islands. Besides the essays, short stories, plays, poetry, songs, and dances, Mana is illustrated with native wood cuts and carvings. Its editors vary with content. Albert Wendt, probably the foremost native writer in Polynesia, is a frequent editor and contributor. The South Pacific Creative Arts Society is associated with the University of the South Pacific in Suva, Fiji. Mana publishes the best creative writing done by Pacific peoples and is thus an excellent choice for libraries interested in ethnic or regional literature.
Micronesica. 1964- . S--A. $8.00 individuals; $12.00 institutions. Graduate School and Research, Box EK, University of Guam, Agana, Guam 96910. Indexed: BioLAbstr.; Abstr. Anthropol. Ed.: Charles E. Birkeland. Circ.: 550. ISSN 0026-279X. Micronesiea calls itself "a forum for original research in the fields o f physical and social anthropology, archaeology, linguistics, and ethnology; systematic and ecological botany and zoology, marine sciences, and related disciplines concerned primarily with Micronesia and adjacent regions." In other words, this is a scholarly serial with a biological emphasis. Its articles are arranged under categories such as Geology, Anthropology, and Biology. Most of the focus is on Guam and the tiny coral atolls of Micronesia. The articles are detailed and often include maps, graphs, and illustrations. Its contributors are recognized Pacific scientists. An excellent feature is its abstracts. Each article is abstracted and these summaries are often published in major foreign languages. Micronesica also carries book reviews. It is sometimes behind schedule. A good choice for large research libraries with scientific clientele.
Micronesian Reporter. 1951-- . Q. $4.00. Public Information Office, Trust Territory of the Pacific, Saipan, Mariana Islands 96950. Ed.: Bonifacio Basilius. Circ.: 5,300. ISSN 0026-2781.
U.S. Trust Territory officials produce and publish this quarterly look at life and current affairs in Micronesia. Each issue contains six to ten articles on the agency's activities, history of the area, problems and progress, and political affairs. Most of the articles are written by Trust Territory personnel. Micronesian Reporter, like most other governmentsponsored serials, is always optimistic in tone. Advancements in Micronesian education and lifestyles are frequently reported. The historical articles are usually very good. Regular columns include "This Quarter's Worth" which is the editor's introductory page, "Who's Who" which gives biographies o f the issue's contributors, and a regular interview with an important public official or other Micronesian leader. It is widely read and is particularly important in monitoring the recent trend towards territorial independence. Recommended for its price and fine coverage o f the area.
o f the space in each issue, Pacific Business News also includes information about the South Pacific and East-West relations. Syndicated columns are by Victor Riesel, Milton Moskowitz, Jason Lembeck, Arthur Hoppe, Jenkin L. Jones, and other well-known financial forecasters and economists. Regular features cover upcoming seminars and workshops, bankruptcies and foreclosures, new building permits, a business calendar, public hearings o f business import, real estate, and an historical column entitled "Yesterday's Ledger." Pacific Business News includes advertising and is heavily illustrated with both color and black-and-white photographs. It is extremely informative and much more current than other serials in the business area.
New Pacific Magazine. 1976- . Bi-M. $7.50; $9.00 U.S. Main-
& Life; Guide to Reviews o f Books from and about Hispanic America. Ed.: Norris Hundley, Jr. Circ.: 1,850. ISSN 0030--
land. The New Pacific Publishing Company, P.O. Box 25488, Honolulu, HI 96825. Ed.: Phyllis Jabar. Circ.: 12,000. ISSN 0192--2408. Similar in format to the older and more widely read Pacific Islands Monthly, New Pacific publishes articles of general interst about the important political and economic' happenings throughout the Pacific. New Pacific Magazine is less tourist oriented than most general-interest titles and contains more news and current events. Sometimes issues will focus on one major event such as "Nuclear Nightmare in the Pacific" or "Island Independence" and publish commentary and editorials along with longer reports. There are numerous regular features in New Pacific. Besides the usual editor's page, news briefs, and b o o k review columns, there are also features on Pacific lore, Island recipes, yachting, sports, and new technological innovations in the Pacific region. Important Island leaders are frequently interviewed. There are also some see-and-do types o f articles but the trend is on Island affairs, not expressly tourism. New Pacific contains much localized advertising. Given its informative, newsy focus, it is an excellent monthly update on Pacific activities.
Oceania. 1930--. Q. $18.00 Australian; $20.50 U.S. University o f Sydney, Sydney, N.S.W. 2006, Australia. Indexed: Aus. P.A.LS.; Soc.Sci.Ind.; SSCI. Ed.: Peter Lawrence. Circ.: 1,200. ISSN 0029-8077. Microfilm available from University Microfilms International, 300 North Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Order number C6858. Oceania is one o f the oldest and most respected academic journals in the Pacific. Its subtitle declares it "a journal devoted to the study of the indigenous peoples o f Australia, Melanesia, Micronesia, Indonesia, and the Philippines." For over 50 years its main interest has been social and cultural anthropology in these areas. Each issue includes four to six articles on subjects ranging from mythology and ritual to politics and economics. The articles are technical and scholarly and its contributors are top Pacific scholars. There are also signed book reviews (10 to 20 per issue) and a list of publications received. Oceania is designed for major libraries and subject specialists. It is generally more technical than The Jour-
nal o f the Polynesian Society. Pacific Business News. 1963-- . W. $27.00. Pacific Business News, P.O. Box 833, Honolulu, HI 96808. Ed.: George Mason. Circ.: 9,500. This weekly tabloid gives broad coverage o f business information throughout the Pacific region. It is issued every Monday and contains about 50 pages o f general business news, real estate transactions, court litigation and judgments, international business, new business ventures, and tax information. Although business matters in Hawaii receive about 70 percent
Pacific Historical Review. 1932-- . Q. $10.00 individuals; $18.00 institutions. University of California Press, Berkeley, CA 94720. Indexed: SSCI; Hist.Abstr.; Hum.Ind.; Amer.Hist.
8684. Microfilm available from University Microfilms International, 300 North Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Order number C303. Back issues available from A.M.S. Reprint Company and the University of California Press. This publication of the Pacific Coast Branch of the American Historical Association is "A journal devoted to the history of American expansionism to the Pacific and beyond, and to the postfrontier developments of the twentieth-century American West." Although two or even three issues may come and go without mentioning the Pacific Islands area, occasionally an excellent article will be published on American affairs in Oceania. Most of its scholarly articles are related to Western Americana. Others treat American expansion and relations with Asia. The Pacific Islands lie between and, unfortunately, are only occasionally discussed. Pacific Historical Review also carries lengthy book reviews. Although it is limited in Pacific Islands research, it is extremely well-edited and an invaluable journal for study of the broad area.
Pacific Insects. 1959--. Q. $12.00 individuals; $18.00 institutions. Department of Entomology, Bishop Museum, P.O. Box 6037, Honolulu, HI 96818. Indexed: Biol.Abstr.; Chem. Abstr.; Excerp.Med.; Rev.Appl.Entomol. Ed.: JoAnn M. Tenorio. Circ.: 350. ISSN 0030-8714. Microfilm available from University Microfilms International, 300 North Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Order number C 10398. This extremely specialized journal goes several steps further than Pacific Science by concentrating on insects in Oceania. Subtitled "Organ of the program 'Zoogeography and Evolution o f Pacific Insects,' " this highly scientific serial is published by Hawaii's prestigious Bishop Museum. Needless to say, the research published in Pacific Insects is very technical and intended only for scientists in the field. Charts, tables, and illustrations are included with many of the articles. Recommended for major research libraries with particular interests in entomology.
Pacific Islands Monthly. 1930-- . M. $18.00. Pacific Publications (Australian) Ptd. Ltd., Box 3408 GPO, Sydney, N.S.W., Australia 2001. Self-indexed. Ed.: Angus Smales. Circ.: 11,000. ISSN 0030--8722. PIM is the grand old dame of popular Pacific publications. It was founded by Australian R.W. Robson in 1930 and has been a success ever since. After 50 years its coverage of current Pacific affairs remains unparalleled. PIM contains about 75 pages of news and information in about 15 regular columns, numerous one-page reports on activities in different island groups, and five to ten well-written feature articles. Island politics and governments are given extensive coverage. Some of the more unique regular columns include news about
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visiting yachts, shipping schedules, Pacific stamps, and new publications from island presses. It includes local advertising and is heavily illustrated. Pacific Islands Monthly also publishes important reference books from its mail order bookstore. Its Pacific Islands Year Book is a must for almost any library reference collection. Several important island personalities and leaders are interviewed in each issue and current events are given first priority. Its editors are very experienced (PIM is always on time) and its reputation draws the best Pacific writers. Through the years PIM has been the basic spokesman for island communities. It is highly recommended. If libraries can afford only one general-interest magazine on the Pacific, this would make an excellent choice.
Pacific Perspective. 1972-- . S--A. $8.00. The South Pacific Social Sciences Association, P.O. Box 5083, Suva, Fiji. Ed.: Ron Crocombe and Asesela Ravuvu. ISSN 0379--525X. The South Pacific Social Sciences Association was formed in 1972 "to promote interest and disseminate information in the social sciences in the South P a c i f i c . . . its primary aim is to exchange views and findings in the economic, social, political, historical, and related fields with, or concerned with the South Pacific." Pacific Perspective is a kind of regionalAtlantic Monthly wherein native writers express concerns o f life in today's Pacific. It is well-edited and draws heavily on students and faculty at the University of the South Pacific for articles and news. Each issue contains about 50 pages and eight or so articles. The articles are usually of general interest and many issues follow a common theme - women in the Pacific, economic futures, and new independent governments were treated recently. Besides some academic research there are many "this is how I feel" types of articles written by informed native Pacific Islanders about change or exploitation. There are also several book reviews and announcements in each issue. Unfortunately, Pacific Perspective is often up to one year behind on its publishing schedule. It is never pedantic and highly recommended for its insider's viewpoint - something heard much too seldom from many Pacific serials.
Pacific Science. 1947-- . Q. $25.00. The University Press o f Hawaii, 2840 Kolowalu Street, Honolulu, HI 96822. Indexed:
Biol.Abstr.; Chem.A bstr.; Geog.Abstr.; MineraLAbstr.; Ocean. Abstr.; Pollut.Abstr. Ed.: E. Alison Kay. Circ.: 900. ISSN 0030-8870. Microfilm available from University Microfilms International, 300 North Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Order number C1134. Pacific Science is a high-level scientific journal "devoted to the biological and physical sciences o f the Pacific region." It publishes original scientific research and is not intended for the layman. Its articles (8 to 12 per issue) deal with all types of marine, animal, and plant life found in the Pacific. Occasionally, a somewhat general-interest article will appear ("Sandalwood in the Cook Islands" and "Avian Records from Easter Island" are recent examples), but the majority of article titles are littered with Latin names and appear extremely technical. Pacific Science includes many illustrations, graphs, and tables but lacks book reviews. However specialized its appeal, over the years Pacific Science has done a superb job of publishing important new scientific findings.
world. Many European writers have appeared in Pacific Studies as well as several foremost Russian scholars. Issues run about 100 pages. Besides the four to eight articles, Pacific Studies also publishes numerous book reviews (up to 20 per issue) and a list of books received. Guest editors contribute to a section called "Editor's F o r u m " which is usually the text of an important speech on Oceania. Its printing and layout are attractive. Considering the quality and price, this title makes an excellent addition to the world of scholarly communication in and about the Pacific.
Pacific Travel News.
1 9 5 7 - . 10/year (S--M in June and December). $18.00. Pacific Travel News, 274 Brannan St., San Francisco, CA 94107. Ed.: Phyllis Elving. Circ. : 23,000. ISSN 0030--8951. Pacific Travel News is the official publication of the Pacific Area Travel Association. One o f the older traveloriented titles, Pacific Travel News makes good general interest reading. It is filled with travel and tourism advertisements and information. Association news takes a minimal amount of space. The magazine begins with a column entitled "Pacific Currents" which gives brief news accounts of important information for travel agents and others in the Pacific tourism industry. The main section is made up o f several feature articles which extol and lavishly illustrate the beauties (and profits to be made) of various Pacific islands, cities, and nations. Several regular columns on travel news in the various countries are interspersed. Since the scope o f Pacific Travel News is very broad, it also contains information on Asian destinations. Designed for travel agents and the industry, this nicely-illustrated serial has stood the test o f time and has a wide readership.
Pacific Viewpoint. 1960-- . S--A. $8.50. Business Manager, Information & Publications Section, Victoria University of Wellington, Private Bag, Wellington, New Zealand. Ed.: R.F. Watters. Circ.: 1,000. ISSN 0030-8978. Microfilm available from University Microfilms International, 300 North Zeeb Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Order number C 1903. According to its editors, "Pacific Viewpoint seeks to bring Geography into the mainstream o f the social sciences by publishing the research of geographers, historians, economists, sociologists and anthropologists concerned with the systematic, regional and theoretical aspects of economic growth and social change in the developed and developing societies; by providing information and documentation on relevant topics." F o r the last 20 years Pacific Viewpoint has been doing this well. It is a multidisciplinary journal devoted to academic research in nearly all areas o f Pacific studies. The emphasis is on current trends and problems. Articles on topics such as tourism, island economies, neo-colonialism, the modernization of traditional cultures, and internal migration occur frequently. Four or five articles are presented in each issue. This title shows careful editing. The articles are academic yet highly readable, and the subjects treated are of interest to a wide range o f Pacific students and scholars. Contributors are generally from the South Pacific with Australian and New Zealand researchers well represented. Pacific Viewpoint publishes long reviews of important regional publications. It is recommended for its readability and timely articles.
Pacific Studies. 1977- . S--A. $5.00. Institute for Polynesian Studies, Brigham Young University--Hawaii Campus, Laie, HI 96762. Ed.: Robert D. Craig. Circ.: 1,000. ISSN 0275-3596. Published twice yearly by the Institute for Polynesian Studies, this new journal contains scholarly articles on Pacific history, anthropology, archaeology, and linguistics. It has been well-received in the academic community and is particularly important in publishing Pacific research from around the
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Samoan Pacific Law Journal. 1 9 7 3 - . T--A. $15.00. William M. Grant & Sons, Inc., Grant Building, 3011 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach, F L 33510. Ed.: Richard E. Damon. Despite its Florida distributor, Samoan Pacific Law Journal is published by the American Samoa Bar Association located in Pago Pago, American Samoa. This law journal fills a real gap in providing information about Pacific legal affairs. It is modestly typed (not typeset) and each issue begins with a
directory o f the entire membership with addresses o f Association members. Professional and local news follow on the next four to six pages. The bulk o f the journal is made up o f two parts: three to four long articles dealing with both traditional and modern legal systems in the Pacific, and a section which summarizes important recent cases and decisions of regional interest. Some of the articles are very technical while others are historical, sociological, and even anthropological. The Samoan Pacific Law Journal contains about 120 pages per issue and like many Pacific serials, is usually behind on its publishing schedule. Its uniqueness and variety make it a good choice for major law libraries and others interested in the Pacific area.
South Pacific Bulletin. 1 9 5 1 - . Q. $5.00. Secretary-General, South Pacific Commission, B.P. D5, Noumea Cedex, New Caledonia. Indexed: Biol.Abstr. Ed.: Kevin Earl. Circ.: 3,000 (English edition) and 900 (French edition). ISSN 0038-349X. The South Pacific Bulletin is the official journal of the South Pacific Commission formed in the late 1940s to improve the quality of life among native Pacific Islanders. Over the years it has sponsored much research and many publications about health care, agriculture, fishing, and general public welfare. Its Bulletin focuses on typical island opportunities and problems such as fishing and aquaculture, raising bananas, good nutrition, tooth decay, and long-term development o f the region. Each issue carries about ten articles on timely island topics. The articles are written for general readers and include many black-and-white illustrations. SPC news is also included. The Commission promotes health care and economic improvements through numerous seminars and workshops. These are advertised in the Bulletin and accounts o f successful ones are also published. It is frequently behind on its publishing schedule. This is an inexpensive, grass-roots look at life in the South Pacific.
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