More Books from Barbados

On my most recent visit to Barbados I discovered another bookstore. For me, the discovery of a bookstore, even if it is a branch of one already discovered, is like discovering a treasure ship. It is Chattel House Books in Sky Mall.

Now the important thing is that in doing this, I discovered a lot of other children’s books by other Barbadian authors, that is, in addition to those I’ve  mentioned in previous blogs. Overwhelmed, as it seems I often am, I only bought two. Here they are.

 Lottie the Blackbelly Lamb, Lottie Finds Heritage, by Sandra O. Browne ( No, no relative), illustrated by Omni Illustrations (Ama Ariya Inc. 2013). This is a charming walk with Lottie past/through important places in Bridgetown. Lottie discovers why they went on the walk, and I discover why the town of Bridgetown is called Bridgetown. Shame on me for not knowing, and just taking it for granted that it was another British name transported to the Caribbean. Blackbelly Sheep are particularly Barbadian. Lottie is part of a series  ‘which has been created to help young readers appreciate matters of heritage and other topics’.

 

Zana and the Amebians, written and illustrated by Aisha King-Casely (Trekvoy Art & Literary Services, 2012). This book is also part of  a series, which in the author’s words, is meant ‘to entertain and educate through art, music and poetry’. This story deals with a part of the environment and how we can cooperate with one another to ensure the best for all, and the reader learns something about energy as well. And no, it does not preach. Interestingly enough, it is sponsored by the Barbados National Oil Co. Ltd. Aha, a corporate sponsor.

Chattel House aims to support local authors and has launches for them. There were a number while I was there. They also have graphic novels (modern comics with fantastic graphics) written and produced in Barbados. In addition, they have an online presence, so check that out. There’s always more to discover, eh. For my part, through Chattel House Books, I’ll see what I can find out about other Barbadian children’s authors. 

That these two books should deal with the built and the physical environment is significant, especially for small island states.  The children who read these books will have to find solutions to the challenges which will arise from climate change, whether created by us or not.