Embrace Caribbean Heritage Month with These Must-Read Books!

Hey book lovers! Ready to add some Caribbean flair to your reading list? We’ve got a sizzling selection of books that will transport you straight to the islands, all available at your favorite indie bookstore, Tuma’s Books! 🌴📖

From captivating tales of history and culture to heartwarming stories and thrilling adventures, these Caribbean gems are a perfect mix for your summer reading. Check them out and let us know which one you're diving into first!

Haitian Gems 🇭🇹

1. Sister Mother Warrior by Vanessa Riley
   • Immerse yourself in a historical tale of rebellion and resilience, bringing to life the unsung heroes of the Haitian Revolution.
2. Ayiti by Roxane Gay
   • Explore a powerful collection of short stories that depict the rich and complex lives of the Haitian diaspora.
3. Behind the Mountains by Edwidge Danticat
   • Follow the journey of a young girl as she navigates life between Haiti and the United States, reflecting on identity and belonging.
4. A Girl’s Guide to Love & Magic by Debbie Rigaud
   • Dive into a magical, coming-of-age story set in the vibrant streets of Brooklyn during the West Indian Day Parade.
5. Nigeria Jones by Ibi Zoboi
   • An intriguing tale of a young girl grappling with cultural identity and self-discovery amidst political unrest.
6. The Year I Flew Away by Marie Arnold
   • A whimsical yet profound story of a young immigrant's journey to find her place in a new world.

Barbadian Treasures 🇧🇧

1. Josephine Against the Sea by Shakirah Bourne
   • Join Josephine as she uncovers the mystical secrets of her island while battling to save her fisherman father.
2. Nightmare Island by Shakirah Bourne
   • A thrilling adventure that takes you into the heart of Bajan folklore and ghostly legends.

Trinidadian/Tobagonian Tales 🇹🇹

1. When We Were Birds by Ayanna Lloyd Banwo
   • An enchanting story of love and transformation, set against the backdrop of Trinidad’s lush landscapes.
2. When the Vibe is Right by Sarah Dass
   • Feel the rhythm of the Caribbean in this delightful romance that explores the vibrant festival culture of Trinidad.
3. The Stars and the Blackness Between Them by Junauda Petrus
   • A poignant, poetic narrative about love, identity, and astrology, spanning from Trinidad to Minneapolis.
4. It Waits in the Forest by Sarah Dass
   • A gripping horror tale that pulls you into the mysterious and haunting depths of the Trinidadian forests.
5. Hungry Ghosts by Kevin Jared Hosein
   • Unveil the layers of Trinidadian society through this dark, atmospheric novel of secrets and survival.
6. Cereus Blooms at Night by Shani Mootoo
   • A lyrical and moving story of forbidden love and societal constraints in a small Caribbean town.
7. Oh Witness Dey! by Shani Mootoo
   • Dive into a collection of stories that explore themes of migration, memory, and the Caribbean experience.
8. Sweethand by N.G. Peltier
   • Indulge in a sweet and spicy romance that celebrates the food, culture, and people of Trinidad.

St. Lucian Delights 🇱🇨

1. To Carnival! by Baptiste Paul
   • Celebrate the joy and vibrancy of St. Lucian Carnival through the eyes of a young boy.
2. Patchwork Prince by Baptiste Paul
   • Follow the touching story of a boy who finds his voice and place through the rich traditions of St. Lucian culture.

🤓 Got any Caribbean favorites of your own? Share them in the comments! And if you're looking for a book buddy to discuss these reads, let's connect! 🌺📚

Support indie bookstores and celebrate Caribbean heritage with us! 🇨🇦❤️