54 pages • 1 hour read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
405
Novel • Fiction
Hawai'i • 1890s
2003
Adult
18+ years
Moloka'i by Alan Brennert follows the life of Rachel Kalama, a native Hawaiian diagnosed with Hansen’s disease and sent to a leper colony on Moloka'i. The novel explores Rachel's journey through exile, relationships, and motherhood, while realistically depicting historical events like the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy and World War II, and detailing life in the containment facilities. Moloka'i depicts suicide, gender-based violence, sexual assault, racist and bigoted language, and outdated descriptions of patients with Hansen’s disease.
Melancholic
Emotional
Inspirational
Contemplative
143,127 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Alan Brennert’s Moloka'i captivates with its rich historical context and evocative depiction of life in a Hawaiian leprosy settlement. Readers praise its well-drawn characters and immersive narrative but some find its pacing uneven and the depiction of cultural aspects occasionally superficial. Overall, a moving and insightful read despite minor flaws.
Readers who enjoy immersive historical fiction with rich cultural settings akin to The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah or Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden would appreciate Moloka'i by Alan Brennert. This novel, set in Hawaii, appeals to those interested in emotional, character-driven stories with historical significance and vivid descriptions.
143,127 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Henry Kalama
Rachel's father, a dedicated sailor and loving parent, who shares a strong paternal bond with Rachel.
Dorothy Kalama
Rachel's mother, a devout Christian who struggles with her daughter's diagnosis and adjusts her life accordingly.
Pono
Rachel's favorite uncle and a source of humor and care on Moloka’i, diagnosed with Hansen’s disease before Rachel.
Haleola
A healer and long-term resident of Moloka’i who becomes a maternal figure to Rachel, imparting traditional Hawaiian lore and beliefs.
Sister Catherine
A Franciscan nun from Ithaca, NY, who becomes a supportive and nurturing presence for Rachel on Moloka’i.
Kenji
Rachel’s husband and a Japanese storekeeper on Kalaupapa, who shares a deep bond and builds a life with Rachel despite their challenges.
Ruth
The daughter of Rachel and Kenji, who navigates her relationship with her birth mother after being adopted and raised in California.
405
Novel • Fiction
Hawai'i • 1890s
2003
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.