February 2013

Molokai byAlanBrennert
What a powerful, life affirming book this was. The story of Rachel, a victim of leprosy, was set in the early 20th century and detailed the life of this indomitable girl who lived in Hawaii at the time of internment/exile for anyone who developed the disease. At the age of six the little girl Rachel was taken from her home and family and sent to Molokai. There she lived her life and what an incredible life it was. Her determination to "beat" this disease never wavered and in the end she did leave Molokai healed of Hansons disease as it now is called. But the events of her life were amazing to witness in this story. We were reminded of Louie Zamperini in "Unbroken" who refused to be beaten by the circumstances of life. Rachel was a survivor who we all truly admired. We really loved this story and recommend it highly.