Must-Read Caribbean Books!
Are you stuck inside and wondering what to do? I know in these trying times that we have been asked to stay inside but that doesn’t mean that your mind can’t go exploring. Your imagination is just as good as a television show, if not better! There are plenty of books written about or set in the British Virgin Islands and the Caribbean. So if you are yearning for the Caribbean sunshine, grab one of these books and have a “staycation” as it were. Here are a few books to ignite those creative sparks, bring a smile to your face, or to educate yourself about the islands.
Don’t Stop the Carnival by Herman Wouk
If someone were to refer a book set in the Caribbean, odds are this would be the one. Don’t Stop the Carnivalis a staple book of most personal island libraries. This fun-filled novel is about press agent living in New York who decides to leave behind the hustle and bustle of city life for the laid back island lifestyle. Although the book, written in 1965, takes place on a fictional island called Amerigo it is said to be loosly based on the author’s experience with living in St Thomas, United States Virgin Islands, which is next door to the British Virgin Islands.
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
This is one of the oldest and most famous of the books on this list. Treasure Island has been the set for many pirate movies, legends and side stories. This novel was first published on 14 November 1883. The novel is about a young boy, Jim Hawkins, who gets his hands on a treasure map which belonged to the an old sailor called Billy Bones and goes on an expedition as a cabin boy to retrieve a treasure chest. Along the way he meets Long John Silver, gets taken hostage, navigates around mutinous crew and takes the adventure of a lifetime! Although it is not set in the BVI, Norman Island is rumored to be the island which it is based off of. Norman Island does have a series of caves which, as well as a popular snorkel spot, has been an area where gold has been found by explorers.
Sunfun Calypso by Julian Putley
Julian Putley is a local author who has lived and worked in the BVI for many years. He is a man of many hats as he is still a charter boat captain as well as a popular author. Sunfun Calypsois a satirical book based on a group of fictional islands. The book is filled with hilarious characters, island situations and laugh out loud moments. It is a carefree and light read for anyone, and especially funny for those who have been sailing around the islands.
Two on the Isle: A Memory of Marina Cay by Robb White
This book was written in the 1950’s and is now a very hard book to come by but an island classic. The author writes about Marina Cay, a small island in the BVI, which he and his wife, Rodie, purchased for $60 in the 1930’s. It details their time on the small cay, and how they made it into their perfect island home. White is also known for his novel Our Virgin Island that was made into a movie starring Sidney Poitier.
Caribbean by James A Michener
If you are looking for a book that is more historical rather than fiction, Caribbeanis right up your alley. Author James Michener majestically intertwines historical facts with an engaging story involving the descendents of Caribbean islands. This book doesn’t just revolve around the BVI, it spans the islands from Cuba to Nevis to Barbados and beyond. Michener writes about the Carib and Arawak Indians, carnivals in Trinidad and plantations in St John. This novel is perfect for someone who wants to get lost in a long book as it is over 800 pages!
Twice She Struck, The Story of the RMS Rhone by Dr. Mitch Kent
We have many wrecks in the BVI, but the RMS Rhone is one of the most famous. Local author and teacher, Dr. Kent published this book about the demise of the ship which sunk on Oct. 29, 1867. The Rhone fell tragedy to a category 3 hurricane and sank with all of the crew and passengers aboard leaving very few survivors. This wreck is a popular dive site with visitors and residents alike and this book is an interesting read especially if you have been fortunate enough to snorkel or dive the site.
Happy reading!
