A Brief History of Seven Killings
About the book
This many-voiced novel begins with the 1976 attack on Bob Marley and traces its far-reaching aftermath.
Americas · A READING GUIDE
Jamaica
McKay leads from Jamaica to Harlem, while Michelle Cliff explores identity between the island and its diaspora. Brodber places colonial education alongside local memory and spirituality. In Kei Miller, a dispute over a child’s hair becomes a story of religion and hierarchy. Marlon James adds a polyphonic panorama of political violence and music.
WHERE TO START
- A Brief History of Seven KillingsMarlon James
- Jane and Louisa Will Soon Come HomeErna Brodber
- Home to HarlemClaude McKay
Books to begin with
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Jane and Louisa Will Soon Come Home
About the book
Nellie reconstructs childhood, sexuality and identity under the shadow of Jamaica’s colonial past.
Myal
About the book
Ella’s story moves between Jamaica and the United States, connecting colonial education with spiritual healing.
Home to Harlem
About the book
The paths of two Black migrants intersect in Harlem after the First World War.
No Telephone to Heaven
About the book
Clare Savage searches for belonging between Jamaica, the United States and Britain.
Augustown
About the book
The cutting of a boy’s dreadlocks exposes conflicts of religion, class and power within a Jamaican community.
The Book of Night Women
About the book
Lilith grows up enslaved on a Jamaican plantation and becomes involved in women’s plans for revolt.
Black Leopard, Red Wolf
About the book
A fantasy novel by the Jamaican author, opening the Dark Star series.
Context and sources
Sources on authors and their connections to this country. Specific edition details appear beside each book. Polish and English originals are not labelled as translations.
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