There is a comment that the female archaeologist is far more knowledgeable than Michener. This is a reference to historical novelist
James A. Michener, whose books were based on extensive research conducted by Michener's assistants. His novels were so well researched that they often began in prehistoric times and, following the family lines of fictional characters, brought the reader through centuries of history. While a number of his novels were adapted for film, one of his most famous novels spawned not one, but two movies:
Hawaii (1966) and
The Hawaiians (1970). Michener is also known for his short story collection, "Tales of the South Pacific", which are based on his experiences in the Navy during World War II. This book formed the basis of the wildly successful Broadway musical and film,
South Pacific (1958).