Caribbean Books

Having travelled to Bermuda many times over the past twenty years (and I lived there for a time as well), I have to say this is the finest and most complete "coffee-table" book on the island that I have ever seen. It is large-format, filled with superb color photographs (including a lot of aerial shots as well as some archival photographs of Bermuda in the mid-20th century). The text gives you a concise, intelligent overview of Bermuda's history. I've given a number of copies to friends who love the island. The jacket blurb says the author was once a Peace Corps Volunteer, and it shows ... this is a real in-depth portrait, not just "post-cardy" superficial coverage. I have several other books on Bermuda, but this one is in a class by itself.

This elegant photography book provides a thoughtful and perceptive portrait of a genteel world all of its own. It makes one think that to escape modern life, the place to go is Bermuda. There is a wide variety among the hundred fifty or so photographs, from close-ups of people to scenic panoramas, all in rich, lush colors. The beach scenes and sunsets are breathtaking. A bonus is the extensive historical background presented in an easy to absorb reader-friendly style. Particularly interesting are the stories of how Bermuda found itself squeezed between England and the Thirteen Colonies during the Revolutionary War and between North and South in the American Civil War. The author reveals that there were no cars on Bermuda until the 1940s and describes the more recent transformation of the island into a corporate center, "the Switzerland of the Atlantic." The care and craftsmanship that went into the creation of this work is obvious. This is literally a "Bermudaful" book. And do not forget to catch the sweetheart on page 17!

Extraordinary photography, combined with intelligent, concise, even poetic text. I am English, but I have lived in Boston for many years. Bermuda is perhaps my favorite island--for its civility, its quiet beauty, a little touch of England in the middle of the Atlantic. This book captures Bermuda as I have seen no other book do ... perhaps because it focusses on the small things: the tiny flower known as Bermudiana, the young schoolgirl gazing deep into the camera ... The picture captions are concise, but packed with information; the author chooses and rations his words carefully! There's also, for those who want it, a complete text which conveys the history of the island. A small quibble: there's no information about hotels, restaurants, etc. However, this is not a guidebook, but rather a coffee-table "documentary" book, and in that department it is incomparable.

When I went to Bermuda for the first time recently, I wanted to leaarn more about this lovely island. Labrucherie's book provides exactly what I wanted - a readable and fairly comprehensive history of the island, as well as many beautiful pictures. Just perfect!

I have long been a fan of the works of the late Howard P. Lovecraft, and when I discovered a roleplaying game set in his horror universe existed, I knew I had to get it. From the modules to the setting books and creature compendiums, CoC has been a never-ending delight for my inner horror gamer. I highly recommend this sourcebook, along with every single other CoC sourcebook, module, and rulebook. Call of Cthulhu is definitely worth it!

I found this to be an excellent "modern-day" resource for the "Call of Cthulhu" role playing game. Fans of other settings for the game probably won't find it as interesting, or as useful, but if you like to play your "CoC" in the "here and now," this is definitely a must-have resource.

Chaosium's summary text for this product reads: "What secrets lie within the Devil's Triangle? Why was the Mary Celeste abandoned after it passed through the triangle's waters? What caused the disappearance of an entire flight of Avengers in 1945? Why do electronics fail in the triangle for no apparent reason? Now, the answers can at last be revealed.

"'The Bermuda Triangle' is a 1990s sourcebook centered around the famous mystery of the Devil's Triangle. It acts as a guidebook to the entire Caribbean region, detailing not only Bermuda, Cuba, Jamaica, Haiti, and other nearby islands, but also exposing the mysteries of Rha'thylla, the Sargasso Sea, and more. Guidelines are included for running entire Caribbean campaigns. The book concludes with 'The Privateer's Diary,' a scenario."

This book is a great addition to any CoC collection. Not only does it provide tons of information on the people, politics, and customs of the Bermuda triangle and surrounding areas, but it is loaded with useful creatures, ideas, theories, etc. It has many charts that all keepers should find useful, such as one that randomnly chooses a sea animal. And, to top it all off, it comes with a scenario that I cant wait to throw on my investigators. It is well worth the cost, and then some!

This book is very good if you enjoy the modern adventures for this game. I really liked it because i am very interested in the Bermuda Triangle. I won't tell you any of the story because it would ruin the fun of the game. I wouldn't reccomend this book if you enjoy long campaigns like Beyond th Mountains of Madness (which took me a couple of months to complete with my friends). I would highly recommend this book to anyone except people who like the 20's or 30's adventures.

I was surprised to find out that the title did not tell the truth. The writers did not include half the world. The indian ocean for example is missing.

This book is a must for anyone who enjoys water activities. It is a terrific book for beginners and also for those who are advanced in snorkeling.

I love this guide. My dive vacations are strickly to take underwater photos and being able to plan ahead makes my life so much easier. It gives me the airlines, the resorts with prices, when I can expect good weather. It's like having a personal travel planner. I would not plan a Caribbean dive trip without consulting this trustworthy book.

While most travel guides give vague descriptions about snorkeling or send me to places with nothing to see, Best Dives Snorkeling Adventures gives complete vacation planning details with maps and directions to terrific places in each destination to snorkel off the beach, sign up for a boat trip. IT COVERS all the best Caribbean, Bahamas and Bermuda snorkeling sites, the dive shops that will take you on boat tours and resorts that are especially dive-friendly. Great for families, novice and experienced divers.

What a great collection of essays! An excellent book to have around and read when you're a Nuyorican looking for some grounding!

Collaboratively compiled and edited by the team of Gabriel Haslip-Viera (Director of the Program in Latin American and Latino Studies, City College, CUNY), Angelo Falcon (Senior Policy Executive for the Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund), and Felix Matos Rodriguez (Director of the Center for Puerto Rican Policy, Hunter College), Boricuas In Gotham: Puerto Ricans In The Making Of Modern New York City anthologizes essays reinterpreting and updating the history of New York's Puerto Rican community and its leadership from the beginnings of the great migration in the 1940s down to the present day. Organized in chronological order and including chapters by noted historians, sociologists, and political scientists, Boricuas In Gotham covers diverse issues of culture, demography, language, economic status, politics, and community organization. Also available in a hardcover edition (1558763554, $69.95), Boricuas In Gotham is a seminal work of impressive scholarship and a welcome contribution to Latino Studies supplemental reading lists as well as 20th Century American History reference collections.

CHOICE Magazin: January 2005

"Collaboratively compiled and edited by the team of Gabriel Haslip-Viera (Director of the Program in Latin American and Latino Studies, City College, CUNY), Angelo Falcon (Senior Policy Executive for the Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund), and Felix Matos Rodriguez (Director of the Center for Puerto Rican Policy, Hunter College), Boricuas In Gotham: Puerto Ricans In The Making Of Modern New York City anthologizes essays reinterpreting and updating the history of New York's Puerto Rican community and its leadership from the beginnings of the great migration in the 1940s down to the present day. Organized in chronological order and including chapters by noted historians, sociologists, and political scientists, Boricuas In Gotham covers diverse issues of culture, demography, language, economic status, politics, and community organization. Also available in a hardcover edition (1558763554, $69.95), Boricuas In Gotham is a seminal work of impressive scholarship and a welcome contribution to Latino Studies supplemental reading lists as well as 20th Century American History reference collections."

This new and very important collection of essays reinterprets and updates the history of New York's Puerto Rican community and its leaders from the beginnings of the great migration in the 1940s to the present time. The collection also honors the memory of the late Dr. Antonia Pantoja, who was perhaps the community's most important and influential activist and institution builder during this period.
The book is organized in chronological order and includes chapters by noted historians, sociologists, and political scientists, such as Virginia Sánchez Korrol, Ana Celia Zentella, José Cruz, Francisco Rivera Batiz, and Gabriel Haslip-Viera. These chapters focus on issues of culture, demography, language, economic status, politics, and community organization.
Eminently useful in college-level courses that deal with Latinos and other ethnic groups in U.S. society, the book ends with essays by Angelo Falcón and Clara E. Rodríguez that assess the legacy, current status, and future prospects of the Puerto Rican community in New York.

Gabriel Haslip-Viera, City College, CUNY, is the editor of Taíno Revival: Critical Perspectives on Puerto Rican Identity and Cultural Politics. Angelo Falcón, Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund, is the author of numerous articles on Puerto Rican/Latino politics. Félix V. Matos-Rodríguez, Hunter College, is the author of Women in San Juan: 1820-1868.

I read this book and was just captivated by the strong women in this book. It is an amazing story of three generations of incredible women who struggled and survived many hardships. It speaks to me about the power of the human spirit. This book and the characters having continued to stay with me. This book is a must read for anyone who is looking for inspiration.

The Bridge of Beyond is about the lives of (about) three generations of Caribbean women from the late nineteenth century to the early twentieth century. I found the book compelling for several reasons. For one, it is set in Guadeloupe and I learned a lot about that island which I previously knew nothing about. Also, the insight the book gave me into Caribbean culture reminds me of the constantly changing, pluralistic culture in which I live here in the United States. This book literally gave me big smiles, tears in my eyes, and a lot to think about. Anyone who is interested in the human condition would enjoy this book.

This book is a wonderful example of the power of womenhood, of its rewards and its downfalls. It emphasizes the bond between women and mothers and grandmothers, and shows that women can survive without a man's help. The imagery and descriptions of the land are beautiful.

Set on the French West Indian island of Guadeloupe, The Bridge of Beyond traces a century of history of the Lougandor women beginning after the end of slavery. Five generations are followed, but the main story revolves around Toussine, the woman known as "Queen Without a Name," and her granddaughter, Telumee. The surprise in the book is that the reader can end up feeling such empathy with characters not fully developed in the traditional literary sense. Schwarz-Bart's women are both long-lived and ephemeral like the fairies and witches of the fairy-tale realm. Her entire novel has an otherworldly feel to it. It is a kind of magical tribute to women, self-reliance, living, and the power of self, and also addresses the ever-present West Indian literary theme of transcendence. One of the nicest pleasures of reading the book is the total envelopment one feels with nature. Schwarz-Bart's imagery is filled with references to the sun, moon, stars, flowers, trees, rivers, waves, and the sea. The imagery is repetitious until it becomes almost a written chant in which the story lives. A truly magical literary experience with a feminist foundation.

If you want to know more about architecture in the Caribbean, you have to read this book!

Through his work at la Marina, Casa de Campo, Gian Franco Fini captures the essence of refined architecture with a perfect air of Caribbean elegance.

This is a book about one of those magical places that once you get there you don't want to leave. It's in the path of boats coming from Miami to the West Indies and is the place to see in the Caribbean before you die. Casa de Campo is the Caribbean most complete resort by far where any possible hobby in the world could practiced at world renowned conditions -besides skiing, except if you change it for water-sky-. The book about the Casa de Campo's Marina is definitely a 5 start in class, quality and content. This is the real thing in Caribbean Elegance and Luxury where you'll be able to find some of the most exclusive houses in the region.

This is the only book available about Marinas from an architectural standpoint. Blueprints, sketches and more than 300 full-color pictures are a never ending source for one of the most luxurious approach to Caribbean Architecture. It's about the renowned Marina at Casa de Campo, La Romana, Dominican Republic and is a must for anyone willing see from the inside out as many options as possible to recreate a tropical paradise despite if it's and apartment or a houses under 2,000 sqf or a masterpiece above 20,000 sqf.
In contrast with W.R. Blain's book for "Marina Developments" -That is an excellent and maybe the only book about Marinas from a structural standpoint- this one is an architectural approach to Marinas and all the elements around it such as Yacht Club, Apartments, Houses, Restaurants and all related services. It's full of details and references in a text that is catchy and easy to read. My only concern was that I thought it was pricy in the first place despite that it was printed and bounded in Italy, but Blain's book is above the $250 and this one is more related to interior design and architecture so it's worth 5 out 5 starts.

This is one of those books you buy over and over again. I love the food in this book.

I'VE HAD THIS BOOK FOR 11 YEARS.SINCE IN MY HIGH SCHOOL DAYS BACK IN MY HOMELAND DOMINICA.I REMEMBER US USING IT AT OUR FOOD AND NUTRITION CLASSES.THIS BOOK USE TO BE ONE OF OUR TEXT BOOK.THERE ARE SO MANY MOUTH WATERING RECIPES.EVEN TO THIS DAY,EVEN IF IT'S IN HALF,WITH SOME MISPLACED PAGES,I CAN STILL COOK UP SOME OLD RECIPES FOR MY DAUGHTER AND HUSBAND.TRUST ME IT IS WORTH THE MONEY,WHICH IS WHY I AM BUYING ANOTHER ONE TO REPLACE THE OLD.

I purchased a 1979 edition of 'Caribbean Cooking' by Rita G Springer back in the early 80's because I needed to learn to cook. I'd moved to England from Trinidad where I grew up. Clueless on how to create the food and dishes upon which I grew up, loved to eat and missed dreadfully, my only option was to learn how to create these for myself! Since then, Ms Springer's book has been one of my best loved, always-to-hand culinary companions. I've created my favourite dishes reliably and repeatedly and tried some new ones to boot.

My 1979 edition was well-thumbed, falling apart really. So I was very excited to find that this old favourite had been re-printed and I could buy a new but the same copy. This book represents for me a staple for anyone wishing to eat real everyday West Indian dishes. As a Trini who loves her food, I can definitely recommend this book for all you Caribees far from home, homesick for local fare. And for the adventurous foodie souls out there, I can definitely recommend this book for you too!

ENJOY!

My father bought this book for my mother for Christmas in 1975. It has some absolutely wonderful recipes-coconut bread being my favourite. Even if you don't cook, it's a great book to read anyway as Rita gives you an insight into the Caribbean way of life. My copy of the book in now in a bad way, it has been mended so many times that I think that if you removed the tape, the book would disintigrate :) The book has been handed down to me now and I feel very honoured to have it. Its contents remind me of my childhood, where my parents came from and ultimately, where I come from. A treasured and well loved heirloom. Thank you Ms Springer.

This book has some wonderful recipes. I was looking for a book that would give me a different recipe for Rice and Peas, but discovered other interesting recipes. I'm glad I bought the book.

When I received this book as a gift, I couldn't wait to read through it and start cooking. The author, John DeMers, does an excellent job of explaining the basics of Caribbean cooking including a list (with explanation) of herbs & spices, seafood, meat & poultry, fruit & vegetables most commonly found throughout the Islands. The recipes are clear, concise and can be followed by novice cooks and professional chefs alike. Definately a good buy!

It is a must have book. It is filled with many delightful entrees that you will enjoy.

The other day I went through my cookbooks, to see if I could weed some out, because I have too many to mention. It's hard getting rid of a cookbook, especially one with a few recipes in it that you've come to love. But I've scanned the recipes I need to keep forever into my MacBook. However, there were an even dozen I couldn't part with. These are books I turn to time and time again, even though I consider myself somewhat of a gourmet chef.

CARIBBEAN COOKING is one of the books I kept as it's chucky jammed full of wonderful recipes. I really like the "Roast Veal with Black Sauce" on page 12, though I must confess, I could never eat veal, so I sub a regular roast and the result is delicious, really.

Everybody's heard of jerk chicken, but how many of you out there have ever had jerk pork. Get this book, try the jerk pork recipe, you'll be amazed. But for me the piece de resistance in this book is the "Snapper Santiago". It is simply to die for. This is one cookbook that will bring mouthwatering joy to many a meal.

Review submitted by Captain Katie Osborne

Caribbean Escapes book is the most exclusive travel reference book I've ever seen. I love the colorful and high quality pictures that the publication showcases all over the 400 pages. The stories are really helpful for any Caribbean trip. They recommend dining, activities and shopping for each region. With 22 destinations and 400 pages, this coffee table book is one of a kind.

I can't wait to see more books from this publisher, I'm sure they will be as good as this!

"Caribbean Escapes is a sequence of indulgent experiences in dazzling photographs endorsed by informative and entertaining text. Put it on your coffee table and it will lure you back again and again. Each turning of the pages thrills the senses. Your ability to resist will be nil."

I ordered Caribbean Escapes and was surprised at what I found. I have never seen a publication in an oversized/ coffee table format that focused on high end travel. There's foders, frommers, and lonely planet but they are small and ment to bring along after you figure out where you're going and where you'll stay. Due to its size (11'x13') this one is obviously for trip planning prior to travel. The others also give details on budget dives to luxury resorts. Caribbean Escapes focused on what I was looking for which is indepth detail and experience based information on the best travel options in the islands. This one is for planning before the trip and tells you about the island and then gives you information through articles to pick your hotel. It also recommends the top restaurants and activities as well. It's perfect for those who want to figure out where to go and will spend a few schekels on their vacation. The photos are over the top too. Very impressive.

Are you trying to find the perfect spot to vacation, forget your troubles and lose yourself in a world all your own? If you are you simply must have this wonderful book and experience in word and pictures the world of the Caribbean.
In this work more than 20 writers have taken the time to clue you in on 100 resorts. As you read through this work your eyes will feast upon beautiful pictures of the area, the beaches, the luxurious living quarters of the numerous resorts and will hunger to taste more.
You are given important tid-bits of information on regions that have the best golf, spa, honeymoons, shopping or excitement. Each location is vividly pictured and explained to you. I particularly loved "Musha Cay," a fantasy location, one where you have the ability to own your own island, one week at a time. Wonderful!
I don't believe they left anything out of this work that you would need to know. The only problem I see would be trying to make a decision as to which one to chose to spend your time. This truly is a useful, fun, colorful experience of a read for those planning their getaway to those who would just like to taste of what could be. Very well done.

A Caribbean Journey from A to Y (Read and Discover What Happened to the Z) is an ABC picturebook that leads the reader through the Caribbean islands as well as through the alphabet. From Aruba to Trinidad and alligator to yam, A Caribbean Journey from A to Y is filled with fun facts about life, cuisine, fun, and culture in island nations! "What words begin with Z? Zoo begins with Z, but we'd rather use it for zebra. We don't have zebras in the Caribbean (except at the zoo), but that doesn't matter. We will take our Z to Africa, where zebras are really from, and where they still run free." Simple, color illustrations in the style of a child's drawing enliven this wonderfully educational picturebook.

This is an alphabet book for children like no other. The words, carefully chosen, educate children in a way that is not just fun, but entertaining as well. The illustrations jump off the page and makes this book a journey like no other. Surprising, as you can tell from the title, is how Z is used at the end. This book is filled with suspense, history, knowledge and fun. This is a great book to read aloud, in a classroom, on the plane, etc. As a father, I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for more than an alphabet book, but a book that will leave the reader wanting to learn more about the caribbean islands and a better understanding about how the caribbean came to be.

This is a wonderful book filled with bright and beautiful illustrations and provides great information about the caribbean islands and their abundance of unique flora and fauna. The story is entertaining and easy to read, with a great discovery in what happened to the Z. I read this book to my son even though he is only 2 and he loves trying to find all the items listed on the page, provides fun and education. A rare find! A one of a kind ABC book!!

Mario Picayo's A Caribbean Journey from A to Y creates a sincere, helpful template for readers as they navigate the Caribbean Islands using the alphabet as their guide from letters A to Y (leaving the reader in suspense wondering where the Z has gone to). Each letter serves as a looking glass into Caribbean culture by representing its rich vegetation, diverse array of animals, and, most importantly the great people that inhabit these islands. While the alphabet guides the reader, Earleen Griswold's illustrations supplement the text with their lush, vivid colors that are diverse as the Caribbean itself. Bright hues of vibrant blues skies, colorful fish, and hot orange suns catch the eyes as well as the imagination. The story supplies the reader with factual and historical insight in addition to instilling a sense of great pride by uniting the Caribbean Islands by way of highlighting their origins to their African roots. I highly recommend this book especially for reading to children. The striking illustrations and enriching text are perfect for showing the little ones. A great read for children and grown-ups alike.