Monday, June 13, 2011

Two Years and Counting!



Hello Bookworms,

The Neary Library was the setting of the last book club meeting of the school year; and lush Hawai'i was the setting of Moloka'i. This is an amazing story of brave Rachel Kalama who was forcibly removed from her loving family at the age of seven and sent to live in exile in a leper colony on the island of Moloka'i. We follow Rachel's story from early childhood (1891)  until her death (1970). We learn about suffering, disappointment, injustice, and death; most importantly, we learn about LOVE in many forms.

We thoroughly enjoyed Moloka'i. The author, Alan Brennert, wove historic elements into this multi-layered story.  I hope my fellow bookclub members were equally moved by Rachel's  compelling story.

Until September,

Nicole & Tracy




3 comments:

  1. Dear Tracy and Nicole,

    I loved the book! Thank you for setting up the library so creatively. The discussion about Moloka'i was great. I'm so glad we got to talk about it.
    I wish Tracy could have stayed for the whole time. Rachel showed me that we must always try to make the best of whatever cards we are dealt in life. She certainly did.

    Thank you ladies!
    XXOO
    Robin

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  2. Dear Nicole and Tracy,
    Good choice in books! I loved following the historical accounts of Hawaii, as well as learning about real people that lived there. Rachel's story was at times heartbreaking, but her strength to endure was so inspiring. When I feel self pity coming on, I think of people like Rachel, and it sets me straight into knowing how blessed most of us are. We take too much for granted some times.
    Thanks for your recommendation. It was quite a good discussion.
    Oh! And thanks for introducing me to that arrugula pizza--it's incredibly good!
    --Lourdes

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  3. Hello Nicole and Tracy,
    What a lovely way to kick off our summer, hawaiian style! Thank you so much for creating the ambiance and providing the delicious food.
    I enjoyed the historical mentions of Hawaii's land and people. Having visited two of the islands twenty years ago, the book brought me back to an enchanting experience.
    I really liked Rachals character, she was an amazing little girl who showed much perserverance. It definitely was a lesson in perspective and endurance. Most importantly how love conquers all. I was so happy that Rachal at the end was able to realize that she was missed and loved deeply. It was so nice to have Miggy and Diana with us!!!
    Have a wonderul and safe summer bookworms!!
    Until next year, I can't wait!!!!
    Love,
    Mary

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