First Rain

The journey from a complex family and social life in Jamaica to a search for wholeness in America is captured in this inspiring collection. The solidarity of Jamaicans and the island's nuanced class structure are placed alongside a picture of isolation for Caribbean migrants in America and the perils—drugs, violence, and a discriminatory legal system—that they face. Using memories, family lore, and imagination as inspiration, the work alternates between anger and joy but maintains a determined resilience throughout.