White lies = Tuakiri huna / Witi Ihimaera, original novella ; Dana Rotberg, screenplay and director.

"A South Pacific Pictures production"

"Based on the original work Medicine woman"

"The original novella, Medicine woman, has been rewritten and expanded by Witi Ihimaera to become White Lies. It has also evolved into a screenplay by director and screenwriter Dana Rotberg, which has been made into a film by South Pacific Pictures. Thus this book offers an insight into the process of adapting work, as well as offering new versions of this potent story. The book contains the novella, plus a screenplay, film stills and commentary on writing and movie making".

Introduction / John Barnett -- White lies : the novella / Witi Ihimaera -- White lies : the photographic essay / Todd Eyre -- White lies : the screenplay : Dana Rotberg -- White lies : notes and original novella / Witi Ihimaera -- Writing the novellas -- Orginal novella : Medicine woman -- White lies : cast and crew list.

A medicine woman, a giver of life, is asked to hide a secret that may protect a position in society, but could have fatal consequences. When she is approached by the servant of a wealthy woman, three very different women become players in a head-on clash of beliefs, deception and ultimate salvation. this compelling story tackles moral dilemmas, exploring the nature of identity, societal attitudes to the roles of women and the tension between Western and traditional Maori medicine.--Cover.