Brittany McCann's Reviews > Moloka'i

Wow.... this book was a LOT. Before reading this book, I feel so ignorant for never knowing about the leprosy island colony in Hawaii: Moloka'i. It is apparent from the beginning that Alan Brennert took on extensive research to remain as true to the reality of the time period as he could in this telling. I had literally NO idea! Then I spent a crap ton of time learning about it and leprosy (Hansen's disease) in general.

Alan Breenert took this topic on beautifully. Rachel was a well-done narrative voice. But the single thing that makes this book shine and brings it to life is Anne Noelani Miyamoto's spectacular narration. Please tell me this beautiful voice narrates other books because I want to listen to her more. She has now reached my top favorite narrative voices, with Marin Ireland still holding on to her title.

Moloka'i is told in chronological parts through the ages of Rachel Kalama, who, at 7 years of age, is diagnosed with leprosy and sent to be quarantined at Moloka'i in the late 1800s. The youngest age, Rachel, is the strongest of the entire book, while the coming of age section felt like the weakest. Rachel, as a young adult, is also a strong section, and Rachel is a middle-aged woman. Rachel's final telling as an older woman is again a bit weak but necessary.

There is a wonderful cast of phenomenal characters, such as Rachel's father, Henry, her uncle Kapono, and her friend Haleloa. All her friends on the island, such as Sister Catherine and Leilani, and of course, I had a soft spot for Kenji.

Brennert brings Rachel to life, and it is hard not to empathize with her and all she and others go through. This is worth the read for sure! I would LOVE to go to see the sights brought to life before my eyes one day.

A weird but hilarious quote that made me say What?!?:
"His handshake was soft and gentle, like the brushing of a leaf.:

4.5 stars rounded up to 5 for me.