Trinidad and Tobago Books

I was introduced to this book through my high school literature class and thoroughly enjoyed. It's description of parts of early Trinidadian culture was my first glimpse into that world.
The story illustrates the social and cultural norms of the day and I read it with great curiousity.
Life has pushed Tiger and Urmilla into a new phase and we journey with them as they explore life and the small world in which they live.

I first read this book when I began teaching at a boy's school in Barbados 20 years ago, and I have ordered or taught excerpts of it to my classes in three other schools over the years. The book sets itself up for comparison between the two locations, London and Trinidad, and between the creole and the immigrant experiences. The stories range from the longer "Johnson and the Cascadura", which Selvon would expand into the later novel "Those Who Eat the Cascadura", to the stream-of-consciousness piece which ends the collection, "My Girl and the City", a style he would further explore in "The Lonely Londoners". Read separately or collectively, this is a delightful book of short stories that captures moments in time and for all time.

It is a pity that this book is no longer in print. I was first exposed to it when I taught it as part of the CXC curriculum in Barbados in the mid-80s. It is a delightful sequence of short stories arranged in two parts - Trinidad and London. Some stories are in dialect, others are in 'Queen's English' but for dialogue. The stories, though set in the 1950s, are universal in appeal, as witnessed by the fact that I have taught them to high school classes in British Columbia, New Brunswick, and now Ontario. The opening story, "Johnson and the Cascadura", and the final story, "My Girl and the City", are equal to any short story written anywhere by anyone. The latter story, being a stream-of-consciousness type, is far more accessible for high-school students than James Joyce! If you can get your hands on a copy of this short-story compilation, I don't think you will regret the effort or money expended!

It is a shame that this book is no longer in print. I first taught it in Barbados where it was part of the CXC curriculum, but I have been able to teach selected short stories from it to high school students in British Columbia, New Brunswick, and now Ontario. There are particular stories, such as the first - "Johnson and the Cascadura" and the last - "My Girl and the City" which stand against any short story, anywhere. The latter story is a stream-of-consciousness piece which is accessible for adolescent readers (far more than Joyce!). The collection is divided into two parts - Trinidad and London. If you can get a copy of this book, and are interested in the Caribbean experience, you will not be disappointed with your purchase.

This book is absolutely brilliant. It captures the true multi ethnic fabric of Trinidadian society through the trials of an Indian boy struggling to make it in early 20th century Trinidad. This book brings to light many ethnic and cultural issues that are a now inherent part of Trinidadian life, and is not only a brilliant piece of literature that should be cherished, but a piece of Caribbean history.

I picked this book by using the "pick a random book with your eyes closed" method at the library.

For an American this book can be tough to start. The "poor talk" that Lovelace used throughout the book can be a little tough to get through, but don't give up! It is too good of a book to let one minor flaw stop you. (And a little secret: As the book progresses, Lovelace seems to have trouble keeping up the "poor talk" and becomes a lot smoother to read).

Lovelace's use of description is almost without comparison. He has Hugo's gift of description without having to use chapters to describe a building, person, or general area. His one line descriptions hit so dead on that you almost feel as if you are standing in "the Hill".

The story itself is also an amazing read, but most reviewers seemed to have missed the biggest purpose behind this book (whether Lovelace intended it or not, it is the overall theme). The major theme is that we all judge people without knowing them fully. We hold people back because we don't like the partial picture we are presented. We never take the time to learn the whole story. As you read the book, you think to yourself how you want to be better. You don't want to judge. You vow to yourself that you will stop, when suddenly the last paragraph hits and you realize, "Wow, I am STILL judging without the whole story, maybe it's not possible to stop." If the last paragraph did not make you think this, I suggest you reread the book and think about each character and how you feel about them.

Overall, an amazing read. Lovelace writes an amazing book, with the only flaw being that the "poor talk" seems a little forced. As the book progressed, he seemed to get into a more comfortable area.

Definitely Recommended!

Don't get me wrong I enjoyed this story but in all honesty I thought it was a GOOD but not GREAT story. A little too stiff for me. I did like the characters but at times the reading got a little too much like work just trying to get to another part of the story that was a little more fun and not as much work. [I think I said that right], nothing personal just one reader's opinion.

In Earl Lovelace, without exception, we have the Master Storyteller of the Caribbean. Even years after its publication (1979 and 1998), "Dragon" remains peerless as an authentic, forceful voice of postcolonial Trinidadian society. Nowhere else have the intricacies of carnival been more profoundly explored and dissected than here by the artful mastery of prose in this defining portrait. Lovelace's stinging critique of race and politics is poignant and luminously presented. With heavy symbolism and sensitivity, the story reaches successfully beyond Caribbean life to touch the larger human condition itself. The central figure of Aldrick (whose "mission" is to performa the Dragon dance during carnival) embodies a entire people's frustrations and aspirations. This is an unexaggerated powerful tale by one my absolute favorite Caribbean writers. This story is timeless and one of Lovelace's best creations, far surpassing, in my opinion, his other wonderful novels like "The Wine of Astonishment", "The Schoolmaster", or even "Salt." Anyone sincerely interested in Caribbean culture and literature will find this novel indispensable reading.

Alan Cambeira
Author of AZUCAR! The Story of Sugar (a novel)

The "double vision" of Caribbean life is portrayed in the life of Aldrick who is caught between generational and cultural conflicts. And all of this during Carnival! The Dragon Can't Dance was almost prophetic in the depiction of the commercialization of Mas. Change always brings choice and Lovelace's characters highlight the necessary pain that comes with any decision.

I loved this book so much that I recommended it to all my family and friends. Earl Lovelace captured everything that Carnival means for Trini people. The characters are so real that the faces that I chose to see them as, were faces of people that I actaully knew in my family. LOL. This novel will make all readers want to take a trip to Trinidad and experience life there. This book is just too sweet for words!!!!

I read this book as a child - I am now 46 and still touched by it. I was asked the other night what some of my favorite books were. I rattled off a list of books that I have read in the last 20 years or so that made some impact on me. Then, as I was driving to work this morning, I remembered this book. I did a websearch and was happy to find that Amazon had reviewers of it. The thing I find most treasurable about this book was how engrossed I became with the story. I found myself right there, in the fields, on the dirt roads, with the dogs - it's as if I had been transported into the pages. Fantastic writer, now that I remember the book, I will be sure to read it again, and to look for other titles by the author.
I recomend this book for the young and old alike.

You know you've read a GREAT book when almost 7 years later, you remember the whole thing and where you were when you read it.
Green days is the book, not just for Caribbean born folks ( I am one!) but for any one who have love and lost and loved again. It desires to be bought.

The characters were very universal. Even though I am a trinidadian woman and can relate to the story better than most, it is still a book that every one should read. The main character was the type of young man that you just wanted something good to happen for him. He possessed alot of the characteristics of human nature. He wants a young woman, then he doesn't want her then he does again, then you're not sure what he wants. Life is like that. This story is the perfect theme of innocence to experience.

I just love Green Days By The River. All my friends at school love the book also we read it in Literature class. and in our end of year we get a Test on this Book and others. I love the book I am only just so sorry that shell could not have married Joan.In english Class I got an assignment to write on wheter Mr.Gidharee was trying to lure Shell into a trap.What do you think if you figure something please e-mail me at nhs@cwjamaica.com please! It is to be brought in tommorrow morning. And tell me your reviews also.

A classic West Indian novel, this book is way ahead of its time in its depiction of inter-racial relationships in a rustic country village. This tale puts a new twist on the time old story of star crossed lovers. It will keep you gripped to the climatic finish. This is a realistic novel, which will allow you to experience life in rural Trinidad.

Being an old Naps girl myself I might be a little biased but seeing that I have the old version (which is now well-worn), as well as the updated book, I can honestly say it is worth every penny (pence, yen, whatever your currency).

On a recent trip to Trinidad I brought back a couple of books for some homesick Trinis. One didn't know whether to make Alloo & Channa first, or currants rolls. I think every Trini who lives abroad should have one in their pantry, right next to their curry powder and char sui sauce. Happy cooking all!!

When visiting my mum and family in Florida, they always cook Trinidadian dishes for me and when visiting one of my aunts and commented on her 'cook up' she told me that she was fed up of asking and not remembering how to cook food from Trinidad (she is in her sixties). So to help her remember, her daughter brought over from Trinidad, the original to this cook book, which was quite tatty and beaten up, but you could still read. When ariving back from Florida, I immediately went on line to find this cook book and with a little research, found it on this site. I am so pleased that I got it and it takes pride of place in my kitchen, and when I got my Tawah, there was no stoppping me and now I am queen of roti!!!! Excellent receipe book with clear instructions on how get the taste. My dad actually sat for half an hour going through this book and I am secretly getting him one, as I know he will appreciate it. Well recommended.

Highly recommended. Perfect for those homesick for the Caribbean. It took me months to decide whether or not to buy this book because of its high price, but I finally bought it and it was well worth it. It has everything...currant roll, coconut roll/salara, black cake, coconut drop, sweet bread/buns cake, guava stew, macaroni pie, samosa, jamaican beef patty, jalebi, kurma, buljol, sausage roll/vienna sausage or salami roll,cheese straws, gauva jam, fish and chips, ketchup (caribbean ketchup is different, eh), white bread, hops bread, cheese pinwheels/cheese roll, pone, vinegar candy/taffy/gatta, green seasoning, paimie, paleau, souse, curried eggs, dal, flying fish, fish broth, calalloo, pholorie, breadfruit chips, lo mein, sorrel, ginger beer, etc...it's a good book. My mom, who wouldn't pay more than 10 dollars on a book, wants to buy her own copy of this book, after browsing through mine...yeah, it's that good. It is well worth the high price. My only critisism is for the peera, goolab jamoon and ras gulla recipes;they are the Trini version, the other islands make them in the tradional Indian way, whereas Trini's have created thier own versions, so I think they should have included both versions for those 3 recipes, considering the title is Multi-Cultural Cuisine of Trinidad & Tobago AND THE CARIBBEAN (although the Trini versions do look tasty) but other than that, it's a great book.
P.S- As for the peera, goolab jamoon, and ras gulla recipes, I found out that 'Caribbean Desserts' by Dr. Betty 'K' has those recipes, I havent purchased the book, but I think it has the non-Trini version since the author is Guyanese. So, you can purchase both books if necessary.

This is a wonderful cookbook! It has every Caribbean recipe imaginable, and the directions are clear and concise.

It's the type of cookbook with which one cannot go wrong. There are different types of recipes reflecting the diverse ethnicity of Trinidad and Tobago. There are also recipes for diabetics and weight watchers. The colour photographs add a nice touch and allows one to see what the end product of the recipe looks like.
It's definetly a good buy.

I really enjoyed reading Angel's Grace. It is written in such a way that you can feel the characters pain and happiness. There is lots of little detail that describes the setting and people in the book, which adds to its overall quality. I don't usually like books written in first person. They spend too much time talking about the main character's thoughts and feelings and not enough time talking about the other people in the story. Angel's Grace wasn't like that. It talked about other people not just the main character. The end of this book is also very good. It doesn't leave you hanging. It leaves you feeling satisfied and happy. Angel's Grace is a very good and well written book.

Thirteen-year-old Grace and her sister Sally are spending eight very long weeks with Ma, their grandmother, in Trinidad. Grace misses her friends back in Brooklyn and wishes she could tell them about Raj, the neighbor boy who makes her uncomfortable in a strange new way.

One bright spot is Grace's Aunty Jackie, who is full of fascinating family stories. One evening, Jackie shows Grace old family photos. Grace sees one that puzzles her: Next to Grace's young mother stands a man with a birthmark identical to Grace's own --- a small light hand above the heart. Grace can't tell from the photo, but she wonders if he might also have the thick red hair that only she has. When asked about the man, Jackie and Ma claim not to know who he is.

Grace's mother has always explained her birthmark by saying an angel touched Grace there when she was a tiny baby. Grace remembers how angry her father got over the angel story. Suddenly she wonders: could the stranger in the picture somehow actually be her real father? It might explain why Grace has always felt so very apart from the rest of her family. But how could that be? She realizes that she must discover more about the stranger --- and possibly uncover the truth about herself.

Grace confides her secret suspicions to Raj, who proves to be sympathetic and helpful. He suggests Grace and Sally invite their parents' old friends to the party they're planning when their parents come for them. Grace is struck by the brilliance of Raj's idea, which would give her an excuse to track down the people in the old photos, including the mysterious man with the angel tattoo.

The search is on, but Grace can't help wondering why this man, if he is indeed her father, has never searched for her. Besides, surely if Grace's suspicions are true, her mother would have told her. And what about the man she knows as "Dad"? Wouldn't he be devastated to discover she's not his real daughter?

Tracey Baptiste gives this compelling family mystery a warm and gently satisfying conclusion. Highly recommended!

--- Reviewed by Terry Miller Shannon (terryms2001@yahoo.com)

Grace is thirteen years old. She and her sister have been sent to Trinidad for their summer vacation. At first she is not enjoying being there and misses her friends in Brooklyn. Grace has always felt like an outsider. She feels that her sister Sally is her father's favorite. Also, she has the most unusual red hair that no one in the family seems to have. then one day her aunt showed her an album of pictures of her mother and father when they were younger. From those pictures she comes across a man with similar red hair and a birthmark (features of a small hand) and begins to question if the man she has been calling father is her real father. Excellent plot very believable and real. Great read

Angel Grace is a great book. When I read it I never wanted to take my eye off of it. The end of the book is kind of a surprise. I would recommend this book for anyone who loves to read Mystery. Angels Grace is about a girl named Grace who thinks she is a misfit, so she goes and finds out why all because of a picture. I thought it was the best book ever.

There are many good books, but I think that Angel's Grace is one of the best. When I began to read this book, I thought that it was going to be boring, but I was really wrong. Angel's Grace is a wonderful book that continued to make me want to read it as it went on. I thought that this book was very good because it seems as if you were there and living the life of the family.
In Angel's Grace, there are very good and interesting parts, but there are also sad parts. The section in the book that I thought was the best was when Grace and her mother sat down and took out the memory box of her father and discussed it. In this part they were able to talk about their feelings about the death of her father, Angel. However, the part that I thought was sad was when Grace assumed that a man named Mitch was her father and she found out that he wasn't. Another sad part in this book was when Grace finds out who her father actually was and that he had been killed in a car accident.
Through this book, you can get to know the characters because they are vividly discribed and seem to come to life. I got to know the main character, Grace including her hopes, adventures, and disappointments. Another thing that is discribed well is the setting. It takes place on a large island called Trinidad which has bright blue skies, sandy beaches, and delicious exotic fruits. This lovely setting makes you want to be there and describes it as a tropical paradise.

This book is a product of copious amounts of research, and the primary source materials quoted are invaluable to any scholar or aficionado of Trinidad cultural history. The only glaring handicap is that the writing of often a little brittle, and could benefit from a strict editor to help with flow. Highly recommended for anyone's book collection or school/university library.

Only in Trinidad could a serious historian also be a serious calypsonian. This is a great, original, absorbing book. Get a Chalkdust album as a companion to the book.

Book Review.

Prof. Hollis "Chalkdust" Liverpool,
Rituals of Power & Rebellion. The Carnival of Trinidad and Tobago 1763 - 1962. Chicago: Research Associates School Times Publications and Frontline Distribution Int'l Inc., 2001. ISBN 0-94839-080-8

Dr. Hollis "Chalkdust" Liverpool has a natural talent for writing. The roots of the Carnival tradition, the history of calypso, the music, the dancing, and the masquerading date back to the place of origin, the homelands of the Africans, in the Western regions of Africa, before the period of slavery and forced migration to Trinidad. In the 18th and 19th century in Trinidad, the lyrics, the melodies, the tunes, the call/response style, everything related to calypso, were eventually affected by the Spiritual Baptists' arrival to Trinidad from the US. The Shango music and the African style of dancing from Africa were brought to Trinidad and Tobago by the slaves, and as a result of adaptation to their new environments, the Africans produced "the calypso". The Carnival and the calypso cannot be separated, for the Africans created their new style of masquerading and singing to vent their anger and frustrations from their oppression during their period of enslavement. "Rituals of Power and Rebellion" and the sequel "From the Horse's Mouth" are two books that go together and deserve recognition not only for the literary style, but for their authenticity as historical texts that shed light on a topic that few historians have discussed before. It is true that texts prior to these scholarly books were Eurocentric in their outlook. The Europeans style of masquerading was also brought by the French and others to Trinidad, but the survival of the Carnival tradition was mainly due to the Africans from Africa who created their new style of masquerading and singing in their new home in Trinidad and Tobago. Recently, Prof. Hollis "Chalkdust" Liverpool launched his book in Toronto, "From The Horse's Mouth: Stories of the history and development of the Calypso", published in Port of Spain, Trinidad: Juba Publications, 2003. ISBN 976-8194-13-8

Dr. Hollis Liverpool is currently a Cultural Anthropologist and Assistant Professor of Social Sciences at the University of the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas. He is a Professor, a Calypsonian, an historian, a Calypso Monarch, a writer, an author of many books and has made suggestions in his book "From the Horse's Mouth" that the music and recordings of all the calypsonians from Trinidad and Tobago should be preserved for generations to come in the Archives. The Carnival and the calypso history are part of the culture of Trinbagonians and we must be proud to promote it as such. The birth of the T and T calypso has its own natural beauty. Dr. Liverpool says, and I put it succinctly, "If you don't buy a book for yourself, buy them for your children," and I agree with him. We must teach our kids the appropriate historiography of our country of birth. I enjoyed reading both these books, because now I have a greater understanding of Caribbean history, music, culture, and traditions. Trinidad and Tobago has calypso, kaiso, soca, chutney soca and many more styles of music yet to come.
Review by Henrietta Akit, a Trinidadian from Toronto. B.A. Honors in History, from the University of Western Ontario, Canada.

A REVIEW OF
"RITUALS of POWER and REBELLION"
November 26, 2001

A masterpiece of social history, Dr.Liverpool's book, "Rituals of Power & Rebellion -The Carnival Tradition in Trinidad & Tobago 1763-1962" is an invaluable addition to the scattered body of literature available on this topic. Hollis "Chalkie" Liverpool, has successfully managed to put into context, the social, political, economic and cultural forces which inadvertently came together to create the greatest show on earth. Rituals of Power & Rebellion is an in-depth study of the development of Trinidad carnival. It reveals that what appeared to be simply a musical bacchanal, was in fact the struggle of an oppressed people to maintain their cultural identity in a land of foreign domination, class struggle, economic deprivation and political strife, The Trinidad carnival provided an outlet for the maintenance of sanity and a powerful weapon to resist oppression & injustice.

Dr. Liverpool has done the people of Trinidad and Tobago a tremendous favour by making this book available for posterity. He has set a standard in a West Indian context, that is rivaled only by Dr. Williams' "Capitalism & Slavery" and Walter Rodney's "How Europe Underdeveloped Africa" in terms of his documentation of historical events. The extensive research that went into the writing of this book is beyond impressive and the fact that is was written by a son with the caliber of "Chalkie" as opposed to a foreign observer is a credit to West Indian scholarship.

This book should be read by anyone interested in the history of Trinidad and should be compulsory reading for students of West Indian history at the University level. To a griot and historian, I say Chuba Dubai.

J. Michael De Gale

Toronto, Canada.

"Rituals Of Power and Rebellion" by noted historian and calypsonian, Dr. Hollis "chalkdust" Liverpool, is a masterpiece of scholarship, insight and impressive research. An in-depth study of the evolution of Carnival in the Caribbean and in Trinidad & Tobago in particular, "Rituals Of Power & Rebellion" is that history lesson, which needed to be told and which now needs to be read by all people of the African Diaspora. Dr. Liverpool uses his wonderful skills as a storyteller to keep his readers enthralled as he unravels the many layers of social, anthropological, cultural and musical history, which have contributed to the survival and evolution of Carnival. As a history of Carnival, "Rituals Of Power & Rebellion is unparalleled. It covers all aspects of Carnival's growth and evolution. The book takes the reader beyond the shores of Trinidad & Tobago as it examines the strong cultural and social ties, which kept the displaced and enslaved African closely connected to his African traditions, as evidenced by the nature and characteristics of the Caribbean masquerade. "Enslavement, then, did not cut the cultural rope linking Africa to the New World. Rather, there was always continuity and change. ... The Carnival in Trinidad then, was filled with African traditions of mask, masking, masquerading, singing and dancing." Dr. Liverpool shows how European and other ethnic traditions also influenced the manner in which Carnival evolved. "The tradition of Carnival, it will be seen, was utilzed by the people as part of their organized cultural resistance, to check the imposition of European values and customs on Africans generally." "Rituals Of Power & Rebellion" is a wealth of information. It brings together many of the elements - positive and negative - which have contributed to the social and cultural evolution of the displaced and enslaved African. It gives the reader an in-depth look at the traditions and customs of Africa, which survived the Middle Passage -- those African myths, customs and rituals, which are so important to the heritage of the displaced African wherever he happens to be. "That the Carnival tradition survived from 1783 to 1962 was due in no small measure to the resilience of the Africans in Trinidad and their determination to carry out their West African traditions despite the attempts of the dominant elites and the Colonial Government to rob them of their memories and legacies." Calypso is traditional Carnival and Dr. Liverpool gives his readers a master's course on this subject as he shows the direct relationship of calypso to the music of Africa in technique, rhythm and style. "The roots of music and dance as contained in the Carnival of Trinidad go back therefore to Africa, where music is integral to almost all aspects of community life". The book gives a detailed look at the various musical instruments and the patterns of music, which have influenced the development of calypso, as well as other forms of Caribbean music. It is a fascinating account, which gives, in great details, evidence of the strong connection, which the music of the Caribbean still has with the African continent. We are told that, "Singing in the Caribbean followed the African impromptu style and call-and -response pattern." Dr. Liverpool gives such an in-depth analysis of the subject that this book becomes a most useful reference for students of Caribbean/African musicology. "RITUALS OF POWER & REBELLION" educates the reader on the evolution of Carnival, the music and the masking and, in so doing, gives a remarkably in-depth historical review of the period in question. Not only does it provide the political and cultural aspects of the celebration of carnival from 1763 to 1962, but it also gives an insightful account of Trinidad's history during that period.It shows the indubitable spirit of the displaced and enslaved African in the struggle to survive the harshest of conditions in a place far removed from the land of his forefathers. On reading "RITUALS OF POWER & REBELLION" one becomes acutely conscious of the important role of a people's heritage on their cultural and social evolution, often in ways not usually considered. Dr. Liverpool has written an exceptional book. To his credit as a storyteller, this remarkable historical account flows beautifully and becomes an easy read. It will, no doubt, become an important part of the scholarship for students of Afro/Caribbean studies. It should also become a much-used reference on bookshelves in the homes of anyone interested in the evolution of Carnival in the caribbean and in the cultural history of people of the African Diaspora. Hats off to Dr. Hollis "Chalkdust" Liverpool for such an impressive tour de fource...Kanchan Gilfillian & Anthony County... New York, N.Y.

This guy should be doing nothing but writing bird guides! First, the writing itself is not only clear, but also entertaining. He writes about the birds, the geography, the accomodations as if this is his hometown and these are his friends. The tips are valuable... the book's organization can not be improved... even if you don't plan a birding trip to Trinidad and Tobago, it's worth having this book, because it's fun to read. I wish he would write guides for American areas!

This book is a great find for anyone planning a trip to Trinidad and Tobago! The author gives you great information on the best birding locations, how to get to them and which birds you will see. The bird list and seasonal distribution list are very useful. Besides the birding info his book is an invaluable guide to where to stay and how to get around.

Just to update, Bill now lives in Indianapolis. I love reading Bill's guides and wish he had one for the Los Angeles CA area. His books are filled with details of the area, things apart from just the birds, that make the reader keep reading until they realize that they've read an entire birding book.

I grew up with Bill and have been intrigued with his knowledge since I followed him around as his little sister. Our current trips are still filled with interesting information and I am looking forward to the next book he releases. No one does a better job.

IMC

Murphy's "A Birder's Guide to Trinidad and Tobago" is newly released with new maps and updated commentary. These two islands have as many species of birds as the continental US. Finding even a couple hundred species during a self-guided trip requires this book. If you, a friend, or a loved one is going to the islands, don't leave home without it!

My family is from Trinidad, so I am already quite familiar with the island and its culture and customs. Nevertheless, I learned so much from this book regarding the rich history of Trinidad and Tobago ("T & T"). It is also an excellent travel guide. Photography is wonderful. I couldn't be any more pleased with this book. In fact, I will be taking it with me on my next trip to T & T.

This book was both insightful and accurate. It provided detailed information about the people, culture, customs and the lifestyle of the Trinidadian and Tobagonian people. There are many pictures representing the most popular vacation spots and the book provides historical detail about the areas and all of the influences of the various countries to colonize Trinidad. It provided a wealth of information for the average reader and even supplements the knowledge of the local Trinidadian who cannot accurately explain certain aspects of the culture. It is a must have book for every Trinidadian and Tobagonian and anyone who intends to visit Trinidad and Tobago. I can honestly say that the authors of this book did their research in an attempt to provide a fair and across the board view of all the racial groups which live in Trinidad and Tobago. The pictures are vivid and the diversity and beauty of the flora and fauna of Trinidad is beautifully exhibited in this book. The pictures alone would make one homesick and long to return to the beautiful island. This is one of the best sources of information I have come across on Trinidad and Tobago it provides, historical, geographical, cultural, political and social views of this wonderful paradise island.

I was told by the locals that I was "well read" after reading this one. Lot's of pictures, lots of history and lots of current information make it a perfect preparation for a trip to the island.

Stefan Falke's gorgeous photos in MOKO JUMBIES could've been featured in our travel or photography sections, but is reviewed here for its gorgeous artistic qualities which pair an oversized presentation with vivid color throughout. Seventeen years ago one Glen Souza founded the Keylemanjahro School of Arts and Culture on Trinidad to revive nearly-forgotten West African traditions of dancing on stilts. Today over a hundred Moko Jumbies practice at the school - and renowned photographer Steven Falke spent six years documenting them, the fruits of which grace a lovely, stunning collection. Highly recommended, a top pick for art library holdings.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Stefan Falke has produced a unique book about Moko Jumbies in Trinidad. His photos tell a story about a side of carnival most people don't see too often. Usually pictures coming out of Trinidad are of the scantily clad feathered ladies wining along the parade route. This is different and worth a look.

You've never seen images anything like these...it's hard to find the words to describe them, so I'll try for just one: A boy in black and red with flowing gold "wings" is striding joyfully along a road bordered by a corrugated iron fence, but he has risen above that impoverished world on his stilts, and is profiled by the magic of a purple sky. The reader finds herself examining the book again and again, seeing more that she saw the last time in these pages of shocking color and surreal shapes. The book is the result of seven years' work on the part of photographer Stefan Falke, and the love of the photographer for his subject shows on every page.

This text was very well written. To this reader who was also reared on Lamming and Naipaul and the rest, there is nothing more gratifying than a beautiful sentence, and Neptune gives us lots of those. Lovely. The spicy tale of the Yanks in the Windies is, as Neptune insists, sometimes glossed over as a Williams-inspired legacy floats on in our various discussions. But indeed, none of what happened during or after the Americans populated Chaguaramas en masse is as cut-and-dry as your average old-time calypso would have you believe. Neptune pieces together a refreshing new narrative that thrusts agency back into women's fingers, exposes the clandestine operations of white hegemony's champions and re-weaves the threads of Trinidadian nationalism. All the while, he delights us with clever, modern usage of the contemporary language rapport during the occupational shenanigans subtly and tastefully. It is a lovely read for anyone, and West Indians in particular will probably be quite tickled throughout. The "Coda" was quite a teaser, particularly the last couple of paragraphs. Neptune opens a world of conversational possibilities for his future books, which you'll be eagerly anticipating after putting this one down.

Peace!

I confess I've never been one to pick up an 'academic' history book in hopes of getting a pleasurable read, however this book breaks the scholarly mold. Though I find Neptune to be heady and thoroughly introspective, his writing lacks, and thankfully so, the jargon and esotericism that can keep me from connecting with a book. 'Caliban and the Yankees' brings up some great and interesting points about revolution and forced me to revisit my image of the revolutionist--here, the disenfranchised people finally get recognition for an often overlooked branch of intelligence that can not be studied in the universities or acquired through a privileged upbringing.
The US occupation in Trinidad, as told by Neptune, becomes a salacious tale of race and class relations, the construction of a national identity and the people who took it upon themselves to reshape and define the culture of its land for the history of its future.
Not only a solid read, but a good one.