Jamaica is a place known for its excellent weather, fresh and delicious food, and the energetic personalities of the people who live there. But Jamaica is also one of those places in the world that doesn’t get much shine unless it’s Olympics or athletics season, or during Bob Marley specials. Jamaica also has some talented writers and some unforgettable folklore that has been passed down for generations. And that’s one of the things that makes the children’s literature so unique. Here are some of the best offerings of children’s books coming from Jamaican or Caribbean-based authors.
The Children Ought to Know by Dr. Amina Blackwood Meeks / Buy on Amazon UK / Buy on Amazon US / Author Website
It’s important that children born into a certain culture are aware of their cultural roots. Being someone from the diaspora, I am forever learning more and more about my Jamaican heritage and how it traces back to Africa. I wish I was able to consume more of these teachings when I was younger. The Children Ought to Know is the perfect book to give children a taste of Caribbean and African culture through fun and enjoyable stories. The book incorporates writing conventions much like a framed narrative—stories within stories, historical fiction—dramatic play, and poetic narrative. Be sure to check out some more of Dr. Amina Meeks‘ works because she has made a wonderful career out of writing children’s stories.
The Wooing of Beppo Tate by C Everard Palmer | Amazon UK | Amazon US
This is a book I remember from my own childhood. The Wooing of Beppo Tate is a slice of life story of a boy named Beppo Tate who lives in the small village of Kendall, Jamaica. Beppo is an adopted child who is trying to fit into his new life. The book is full of fun and gripping adventures. I remember after reading this book as a nine year old, I pulled out a notepad and attempted to write my own story. So its safe to say this book resonated with me back then.
A Little Jamaican Girl Called Tiana: Tiana & The Plum Tree by Tamara Cuthbert-Daley | Amazon UK | Amazon US
Tiana and the Plum Tree is the story of a young girl, full of energy, who wants nothing more than to play all day. Her explorations lead her to a plum tree, and its here she learns a valuable lesson.
A Jamaican Childhood: A Bad Man and other stories by Beverly Ramsay | Amazon UK | Amazon US
This is a well-reviewed book full of stories about an idyllic life growing up in Jamaica in the 1950’s and early 1960’s. The story borrows a lot of experiences from the author Beverly Ramsay. The stories are full of life, capturing the humour and delight of the people. The recommended age is 9+.
Baba and Mr Big by C Everard Palmer | Amazon UK | Amazon US
This is another book from my own past. After capturing a hawk in order to join a secret club, Jim rejects club membership and arranges a new life for the hawk. This is a book that teaches children the value of looking after animals and other species in our environment.
Anna Carries Water by Olive Senior | Amazon UK | Amazon US
Anna fetches water from the spring every day, but she can’t carry it on her head like her older brothers and sisters can, instead she carries it by hand. In this charming family story set in Jamaica, Commonwealth Prize-winning author Olive Senior shows young readers the power of determination, as Anna achieves her goal. As a certified poet, Olive Senior displays her poetic writing skills in this book that is sure to teach young children many new words and phrases. The book also features some fantastic illustrative work by Laura James.
Anya Goes to Jamaica by Nikko M FungChung
| Amazon UK | Amazon USThis incredible book teaches children the wonders of travel. In particular it shows them how to take in new surroundings and culture though absorbing new sights, sounds, smells and tastes. The book is also beautifully illustrated by Fuuji Takashi.
For some reason it is very hard to find children’s books from authentic Jamaican and Caribbean authors, so if you are one or know of a Jamaican children’s author, please contact us and let us know about the books so we can highlight them. Please also leave comments below sharing your recommendations for Jamaican children’s books as children’s literature is extremely important.
