Monday, November 28, 2016

Moloka'i by Alan Brennert

★★★ 1/2
"Fear is good.  In the right degree it prevents us from making fools of ourselves.  But in the wrong measure it prevents us from fully living.  Fear is our boon companion, but never our master."

This was a really unique and interesting story of a young girl's experience growing up in Moloka'i - an island in Hawaii where those diagnosed with leprosy were sent in the late 1800s.  Rachel's story is tragic in so many ways, yet she finds a new live in Moloka'i and is able to create a future for herself.  The writing was so-so, but I really enjoyed the historical aspects of the novel and all of the characters that were able to find hope in the midst of a horrible disease.

Thursday, November 10, 2016

Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

★★★★ 1/2
"Don't be afraid.  There's the two of us now."

I don't know what to say about this book that hasn't been said before, but I FINALLY was able to get through the first 100+ pages and finished it.  I guess I shouldn't try to read such a huge book right before I have a baby or start a new job or be in the middle of grad school, but those things keep happening lately and I honestly had to start this book at least three times.  I knew it I would love it once I did - and I was right.  A perfect mix of history and romance and - time travel.  Didn't see how that combination could possibly work, but it did.  I would love to read the rest of the series...someday.  But for now I am very excited to FINALLY be able to watch the TV show!!!