Andrew Salkey Book order

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Jamaica, the story follows Ricky, Doug, and Polly as they explore their grandparents' coffee walk during summer. The children experience the intense heat and lush surroundings while Ricky searches for an observation platform for his imaginary island. Their adventure takes a thrilling turn when they sense the earth trembling beneath them, leaving them to wonder whether it's a product of their imagination or a prelude to an earthquake.

Set against the backdrop of a fierce hurricane, the narrative follows 13-year-old Joe Brown and his family as they endure the storm's chaos from the safety of their home. With vivid illustrations, the story captures their fears, hopes, and the strength of family bonds during a natural disaster. It highlights Jamaica's resilience, showcasing how the family navigates the terrifying winds and relentless rain while waiting for the storm to pass, emphasizing unity and courage in the face of adversity.

The arrival of the "upheaval" transforms the mundane lives of Gerald Manston and his friends, Shifty and Fu, as they are drawn into the allure of excitement and danger in Kingston, Jamaica. This narrative explores the complexities of political change while emphasizing the importance of family values amidst the turmoil. Through their journey, the characters navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with a shifting society, making for a poignant and engaging story.

Set against the backdrop of a drought-stricken village in Jamaica, a group of friends—Seth Stone, Man Boy, Benjie, Double Ugly, and Mango Head—embark on a mission to improve their dire situation. As they confront the challenges posed by the dry season, their determination leads to unforeseen consequences, highlighting themes of resilience and community in the face of adversity.

A brave and pioneering treatment of sexual identity in Caribbean literature, this novel, first published in 1960, follows the fortunes of Johnnie Sobert, a Jamaican exile who works in London at a club that caters to black American servicemen. In flight from his dominant, possessive mother, he immerses himself in the bohemian Soho scene and adopts a wisecracking persona as a cover for his deep-seated insecurities. Adding to Johnnie’s confusion is the fact that when he is not at work, he navigates a completely different life in Hempstead, where he lives in a bedsitter and carries on an unsatisfying affair with his white landlady, Fiona. These two worlds provide a lively portrait of Britons reacting to the growing presence of blacks and Asians in their neighborhoods, and Johnnie takes lessons from each place. By the time he finally decides to move in with his gay friend, Dick, he is much better equipped with self-awareness—but he has yet to make a decision about where his desires truly lie.