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Moloka’i  By  cover art

Moloka’i

By: Alan Brennert
Narrated by: Anne Noelani Miyamoto
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Publisher's summary

The powerful debut novel from Alan Brennert, Moloka’i tells the story of Rachel Kalama, a seven-year-old Hawaiian girl who contracts leprosy and is quarantined on the island of Moloka’i during the 1890s. Separated from her family and forced to grow up in the leper colony of Kalaupapa, Rachel experiences intense isolation. But she remains strong, finding moments of joy, and even love. Rich in Hawaiian history, this novel proves itself a stellar piece of historical fiction.

©2003 Alan Brennert (P)2009 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic reviews

“Compellingly original … Brennert’s compassion makes Rachel a memorable character, and his smooth storytelling vividly brings early twentieth-century Hawaii to life.” ( Publishers Weekly)

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What listeners say about Moloka’i

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    5 out of 5 stars

Moloka'i...sad, haunting and throughly entertaining

The story was excellent. Narrator brought the characters to life. Thank you for presenting such a fascinating story about a period of time, the disease of leprosy and an island about which I have very little knowledge. I recommend the reader open a brand new box of tissue for wiping your tears and blowing your nose as you listen to the hardships of Rachael, the main character in the book.
Warmly, Marilyn Cohn

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Life and Death at a Much Slower Pace

Who was your favorite character and why?

It would be easy for Rachel to be my favorite character, but I must profess a preference for Sister Catherine. Her calling and her doubt, her love and her loyalty, endear her all the more to me.

Which character – as performed by Anne Noelani Miyamoto – was your favorite?

The narrator did an amazing performance of Rachel's father. She captured his deep and abiding love for his family and his kolohe (rascal) spirit so perfectly in her accent and timing. You can almost see Henry's smile through her narration.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I laughed and wept so many times throughout this reading. As an Island girl myself, the descriptions of life, family, and the islands were so easily recognizable in my own memories. Rachel's astonishment at the reveal of her friends 'secret' was so honest that it tickled me for days.

Any additional comments?

I've read so many poor reviews about the pacing of this story. Readers are best warned that the pacing is reflective of a time when life moved much more slowly. It is not the fault of the story, nor the narrator, that time is spent describing things that are flat-out overlooked in modern life. Take the time to slow down and appreciate the thoughtful observations, and the careful cultivation of the characters and the story.

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    4 out of 5 stars
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Classically Touching

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes. The book is quite touching and the writing is good. The narration is very good as well.

What did you like best about this story?

The expansive exploration of hard human emotions while keeping the rhythm

What does Anne Noelani Miyamoto bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

The native touch

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I did! No details, though. Sorry! :)

Any additional comments?

While the form is quite classical, the writer managed to keep a good grip on me and have me enjoy the novel. He managed as well to keep the structure from sagging despite the long timeline he is dealing with.

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excellent! !! true to history

well developed characters and plot with vivid description of geography religion and culture of the region

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Captivating and educational story. Excellent performance

Great book. Transported me to new lands with excellent vivid descriptions.
Teaches/reminds us to look at people beyond their physical appearance and not to be too hasty to judge others.

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    5 out of 5 stars

Great story line!!

I have read this book and fell in love with it so was excited to see it on audiable and it didn't disappoint!!!

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Wow

This story was an education. I never knew much about leprosy or the people of Hawaii. I absolutely loved this story.

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Loved this story.

I now have another place to visit on my bucket list. The story pulls you in and keeps you there.

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Insights into Hawaiian leprosy

Learned some history while enjoying an engaging story. The narrator's voice is perfect for this novel. The book ends with an author's note, articulating her sources and distinguishing fact from fiction.

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Well written emotionally sad and joyful.

Amazing story. So many life questions the think about in how we treat those around us. A great snapshot of history.

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