Moloka'i/Alan Brennert/389 pgs.

One of the best books I have read in a long time! It is the fictionalized account of the leprosy colony, Kalaupapa, located on Moloka'i during the late 19th to mid 20th century. The story follows the life of Rachel Kalama,  a seven year old Hawaiian girl diagnosed with what is now known as Hansen's disease--earlier on, known as leprosy. I can't do justice to how well the author depicts all aspects of Rachel's life, and those impacted by her life. As I have said before, I'm not a big fan of historical fiction, but this book grabbed me from the start. We will be discussing this book at our May book club, and I can't wait! Such a moving story! Highly recommended.