There's nothing quite like finishing a book and knowing that you now have a favorite to add to your list of favorite reads. While the story was as compelling a one as I've read, it was a learning novel for me, too. The absorption of Hawaii by the United States, the disease of leprosy or Hansen's disease, the leper colony of Kalaupapa on the island of Molokai (heck, the island itself), the island of Maui, early aviation. All of these subjects and more were presented in an amazing story by Brennert, whose writing skills were able to capture the history, the emotion, and the humanity of the many years covered. Heartbreaking and uplifting, following the story of Rachel Kalama from when she was sent away to Kalaupapa at the age of 7 into adulthood, was watching a journey of strength and bravery few of us are ever called upon to muster. I am very much looking forward to reading Brennert's Honolulu. A new favorite book and a new favorite author is quite a catch in reading!