The maturation of the children and the transformation of the society in Patricia Grace’s 'Baby No-Eyes'

Abstract

Patricia Grace’s novel Baby No-Eyes addresses the issues of contemporary Maori society dealing with the aftermath of the colonial heritage. The author sheds light on the past and present abuse of the Maori: harm is done to the children’s and adults’ bodies and their land. At the same time, attention is drawn to the Maori spirituality and beliefs. Grace also underlines the importance of regaining voice and sight by the suppressed Maori community, suggesting that it must undergo a transformation to fit the new bicultural reality. This transformation is juxtaposed with the children’s maturation process.