In Alan Brennert’s historical fiction book Moloka’i the story of Rachel Kalama, a spirited seven-year-old Hawaiian girl, dreams of visiting far-off lands like her father, a merchant seaman. Then one day a rose-colored mark appears on her skin, and those dreams are stolen from her. Taken from her home and family, Rachel is sent to Kalaupapa, the quarantined leprosy settlement on the island of Moloka’i. Here her life is supposed to end—but instead she discovers it is only just beginning. If you are reading this book for the first time, or rereading it in preparation for the upcoming release of Alan Brennert’s new companion novel Daughter of Moloka’i: a novel, please join us for a lively discussion.

All programs are subject to change. If you require an auxiliary aid or accommodation due to a disability, please contact the library at least 7 days before the program date.