Moloka’i by Alan Brennert (2003). Summary of the book.

by

Moloka’i by Alan Brennert (2003)

Introduction

Moloka’i by Alan Brennert is a 2003 historical fiction novel set in Hawaii in the late 19th century and early 20th century. The novel follows the tale of Rachel Kalama, a young native Hawaiian girl who is sent to a leprosy settlement on the island of Moloka’i after being diagnosed with the disease. The novel tells the story of Rachel’s journey through the settlement, her life there, and the relationships she forms with the other residents. Through Rachel’s story, Brennert sheds light on the plight of Hawaii’s native leprosy patients and the discrimination they faced during this time period.

Plot Summary

The novel begins with Rachel Kalama, a seven year old native Hawaiian girl, who has just been diagnosed with leprosy. Rachel is then sent to the leprosy settlement on the island of Moloka’i, away from her family and home. Rachel is forced to adapt to the harsh conditions of the settlement, and she soon forms a bond with the other residents, including the elderly Father Damien. Rachel grows up in the settlement and eventually finds solace in her newfound friendships and the beauty of the island.

However, Rachel’s time in the settlement is not without struggles. She faces discrimination from the outside world and struggles to maintain her sense of identity in the face of her illness. Despite the hardships, Rachel finds strength in her friendships and eventually is able to find acceptance and peace.

Themes

Moloka’i by Alan Brennert is a story about hope, resilience, and the power of friendship. Through Rachel’s story, Brennert sheds light on the struggles of native Hawaiians living with leprosy during this time period and the discrimination they faced. The novel also touches on themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage.

Interesting Facts

  • Moloka’i is the first novel to be set in a leprosy settlement.
  • The novel was based on the true story of a woman named Rachel Kalama.
  • The novel was a finalist for the National Book Award in 2004.
  • The novel was adapted into a musical in 2017.
  • The musical was performed off-Broadway in 2018.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the book Moloka’i by Alan Brennert about?
Moloka’i by Alan Brennert is a 2003 historical fiction novel set in Hawaii in the late 19th century and early 20th century. The novel tells the story of Rachel Kalama, a young native Hawaiian girl who is sent to a leprosy settlement on the island of Moloka’i after being diagnosed with the disease. The novel follows Rachel’s journey through the settlement, her life there, and the relationships she forms with the other residents.

What themes does Moloka’i by Alan Brennert explore?
Moloka’i by Alan Brennert is a story about hope, resilience, and the power of friendship. Through Rachel’s story, Brennert sheds light on the struggles of native Hawaiians living with leprosy during this time period and the discrimination they faced. The novel also touches on themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage.

What awards did Moloka’i by Alan Brennert receive?
Moloka’i by Alan Brennert was a finalist for the National Book Award in 2004. The novel was also adapted into a musical in 2017 and was performed off-Broadway in 2018.

Are there any interesting facts about Moloka’i by Alan Brennert?
Yes, there are a few interesting facts about Moloka’i by Alan Brennert: it is the first novel to be set in a leprosy settlement, it was based on the true story of a woman named Rachel Kalama, it was a finalist for the National Book Award in 2004, it was adapted into a musical in 2017, and the musical was performed off-Broadway in 2018.

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