The author shows tremendous insight and compassion for her characters and the situation of the lepers destined to live on the lonely and isolated colony on Molokai. Rachel\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s story is compelling and reminds the reader of the immense improvements in the care of patients with Hansen\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'s Disease . The living conditions were below standard but the optimism and the joyfulness that Mr. Brennert brought to life makes this a compelling read. Even in the face of adversity, there is always hope and the humanity even amongst those who need help the most.