About This Book
In the Shadow of the Pali tells the compelling story of Liliha, a twelve-year-old Hawaiian girl diagnosed with leprosy in the late 1800s. She is forcibly removed from her home and sent to the isolated Kalaupapa colony on Molokai, a place of immense suffering and prejudice. The novel vividly portrays the savage living conditions and the challenges Liliha faces, both from her illness and the people around her. Yet, amidst the horror, Liliha discovers profound lessons about love, resilience, and the human spirit's capacity for hope. It's a poignant historical fiction that offers a window into a difficult past, suitable for mature late elementary readers.
In this extraordinary first novel, Cindrich brings hope to horror, capturing a journey that teaches a lost girl who has leprosy more about love than she has ever known.
illness
peril_danger
separation_from_parent
discrimination
Discussion Prompts
1
How does Liliha's understanding of 'love' change throughout her journey in Kalaupapa?
2
What challenges did people with leprosy face in the late 19th century, beyond the physical symptoms of the disease?
3
How does Liliha show resilience and bravery in the face of such difficult circumstances?
4
What role does community play in helping Liliha survive and find hope?
5
How might Liliha's story be different if it took place today?
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