Kei Miller

Read Around the World Jamaica

The Same Earth is the debut novel by award-winning Jamaican author Kei Miller. Set in Watergate, a fictional village in St Mary, Jamaica, the story weaves around the lives and intrigues of all the villagers, in particular Imelda, the unexpected, miracle daughter of teacher Sarah and Desmond Richardson. At the beginning of the story Imelda is approached by Tessa Walcott, the local washerwoman, to solve the mystery of her stolen panties. Imelda decides to start a Neighborhood Watch, but faces the condemnation of vituperous zealot Preacher Douglas Braithwaite. The story switches between characters in the village, and between past and present time settings, cleverly connecting all of the people in a bright and humorous tale. It shifts back to Imelda’s emigration to England after the hurricane in 1974, when she stays with the dynamic hash-smoking Purletta Johnson and becomes entangled with a pompous wordsman. She returns to Jamaica after studying a law degree and struggles to fit back into the village of gossip and religious fervour. A village peopled by the likes of Deaconess Jennifer, who prides herself on her virginity and righteousness but beats her adopted son, and Evangelist Milly who whips the villagers into an outraged homophobia and zeal.

This book is bright and beautifully told with humour and wit. I loved the audio narration by Clare Benedict. A five star read, minus half a star for the abrupt and non-ending ending.… (more)

5 / 5 ⭐️'ˢ

“Augustown” by Kei Miller

I found this one to be a compelling story that explores the complex social and historical dynamics of a Jamaican community. Set in the eponymous neighborhood of Augustown, the book follows the lives of its inhabitants as they grapple with poverty, prejudice, and the legacy of colonialism.

At the heart is the story of Ma Taffy, an elderly woman who serves as a repository of the community's history and traditions. Through her recollections, we learn about the controversial figure of Alexander Bedward, a charismatic religious leader who preached liberation and self-determination to his followers. Bedward's story is interwoven with that of Kaia, a young boy who is punished for refusing to cut his dreadlocks.

One of the story’s strengths is its evocative prose, which captures the rhythms and cadences of Jamaican English. Miller is a skilled storyteller, adept at weaving together different threads of narrative and creating memorable characters.

Overall, it’s a thought-provoking and moving story that offers a nuanced portrait of a Jamaican community grappling with issues of identity, power, and oppression. This is a book that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it.

Doña Croll does an AMAZING job on the narration of the audiobook!

I read this one this month because it was a recommended read in my ALA reading journal.… (more)