Em Lost In Books's Reviews > Moloka'i

Moloka'i is tale of Rachel. She was diagnosed with Leprosy at an early age. As was the tradition, she had to leave her family and go to a far away place called Moloka'i. Severed from loved ones, initial days at Moloka'i were very tough for her. Only consolation was the presence of her uncle Pono at the Island. But soon Rachel comes to terms with her new life at this new place. She made friends, found love and solace but also went through the pain of losing and giving up loved ones for their own safety.

One of the most touching thing about this book is relationship among characters and their acceptance of who they're. If someone had lost hope, others were there to be their strength and hold them together. They inspired each other to let go of hatred and love others.

I always love when through a book I come to know about the history and culture of a place. And this book is a real treat. Author has painted a vivid picture of Moloka'i and Hawaii, it's people, their myths, the tales and its traditions. How people treated Leprosy and it's victims in early 1900s to how WW effected this secluded place. Everything was described so beautifully, which also left me trembling many a times.

I really enjoyed reading this and it also left me emotionally drained but satisfied with its end. A beautiful tale of survival, love, friendship and sacrifices.