Reviews
This is one of those books that has been on my to read list but buried under a lot of others that kept coming first. Finally made the time for it and I'm glad I did. Decent story that kept me interested and wanting to read more. This was a part of history I was unfamiliar with but it was interesting to learn and read about. One of the few historical fiction books I've read lately since I've moved away from that genre but this one pulled me back.
I fell in love with this book and with Rachel, the protagonist, and many of the others living on Moloka'i.
I was really excited to read this novel. There were some emotional moments, or times that I was moved, but throughout most of it I was bored. This could've been more of an atmospheric book. They're held on an island and live everyday unsure of what the next will hold. It could've had more heart, but it all just fell flat to me. This is such a highly rated book, so I wonder what I missed. Quotes: * "is a daughter 'born from the brain' of her mother any less believable than a virgin who gives birth to the Son of God?" (180)
Wonderful. Broke my heart again and again. Characters were rich and full and real. I felt transplanted to this time and place which is exactly everything I love about great historical fiction. It's like time travel. Just wonderful.
I have a deep emotional connection with Hawai'i and added this book to my list to learn about one of the many tragic aspects of its history. Moloka'i is the story of Rachel, a woman who was banned to the island as a young girl and lived most of her life there. It's a fascinating peek into life there in the first half of the 20th century. Rachel's character and strength are incredibly inspiring. I cried more than once and learned so much while I soaked up every vision of the islands created by Alan's wonderful writing. I love that he brought beauty, love and resilience into a tragic story. I look forward to reading Daughter of Moloka'i soon!
