Allison’s Book Report “Moloka’i”By Alan Brennert

I am home from two glorious weeks on the beautiful island of Maui. I am not excited that winter finally arrived while I was gone. I will definitely miss the never-ending supply of sunshine and shaved ice, but I have a fantastic book about Hawaii to share with you all this week. “Moloka'i” by Alan Brennert takes you on a journey through heartbreak, resilience, and the beauty of human connection. It is a story that proves even in isolation, life can bloom in extraordinary ways.

Moloka‘i is a heartfelt historical novel that follows Rachel Kalama, a spirited seven-year-old growing up in Honolulu in the late 1800s. Her life is full of sunshine and dreams - until a small pink spot on her skin changes everything. Diagnosed with leprosy (now known as Hansen’s disease), Rachel is torn from her family and sent to the isolated leper colony on Moloka‘i, a place shrouded in fear and stigma.

What sounds like a tale of tragedy quickly becomes a story of resilience and unexpected beauty. On Moloka‘i, Rachel finds a new kind of family among fellow patients and caregivers. Despite the harsh reality of exile, she experiences friendship, love, and even joy. Brennert vividly portrays the island, showing how its natural beauty contrasts with the pain of separation and loss. The novel does not shy away from heartbreak as Rachel faces unimaginable challenges, including the death of loved ones and the constant shadow of illness. Yet, her strength and optimism shine through. Over the decades, Rachel grows from a scared child into a wise, compassionate woman who embraces life fully, even when it does not go as planned. Brennert weaves in rich historical detail, from Hawaiian traditions to the medical practices of the time, making the story feel authentic and deeply moving.

At its core, Moloka’i is about hope, endurance, and the power of community. It reminds us that even when life takes an unexpected turn, love and kindness can make all the difference. Rachel’s journey is both heartbreaking and uplifting, a testament to the human spirit’s ability to adapt and flourish.

Moloka‘i isn’t just a novel. It is a reminder that even in life’s hardest moments, love and resilience can light the way. 

I just know that this story will stay with you long after the last page! Don't forget to pop over to my Instagram @allison.the.reader for more book talk and to let me know what you're reading this week!