Lizabeth Paravisini-Gebert Ordine dei libri

"A comprehensive introduction to the syncretic religions developed in the Caribbean region"--

From Vodou, Santeria, Regla de Palo, the Abakua Secret Society, and Obeah to Quimbois and Espiritismo, this volume traces the historical-cultural origins of the major Creole religions, as well as the newer traditions such as Pocomania and Rastafarianism.

Exploring contemporary Caribbean literature, this book highlights approximately a dozen writers, delving into their narratives and the significant themes that reflect the region's rich cultural traditions. Each chapter provides plot summaries and an analysis of how Caribbean culture influences the authors' works. Additionally, it includes citations for further reading, serving as a valuable resource for students interested in the social, political, and cultural dimensions of the Caribbean through its literary voices.

Exploring the complex theme of coming-of-age, Jamaica Kincaid's novels—Annie John, Lucy, and Autobiography of My Mother—delve into the struggles of female adolescents as they seek independence from their mothers. Set against the backdrop of post-colonial Antigua, the narratives reflect the lingering effects of racism and rewrite Caribbean history through a West Indies lens. Kincaid's protagonists navigate their identities within this rich social landscape, making her work resonate with universal themes of growth and self-discovery.