Buy it: Ripening Time
Caribbean Chapter Books for Kids
Kingston and the Magician’s Lost and Found by Ria Voros
When 11-year-old Kingston discovers a magical book that allows him to travel to other worlds, he embarks on a quest to retrieve the book’s missing pages and save his sister, who has been kidnapped by a sinister magician. Set in the Caribbean and steeped in Trinidadian folklore, this middle-grade fantasy novel blends adventure, mystery, and themes of family, bravery, and the power of storytelling. The vibrant world-building and engaging plot make this a captivating read for young readers.
Buy it: Kingston and the Magician’s Lost and Found
Vanishing Fish by Lida Nosrati
When 10-year-old Maya visits her grandmother in Trinidad, she stumbles upon a magical fish that grants wishes but comes with a twist—every wish granted leads to the disappearance of a beloved aspect of the island. As Maya navigates the consequences of her wishes and seeks to restore what has been lost, she learns valuable lessons about environmental stewardship, community, and the interconnectedness of all living things. This thought-provoking chapter book combines fantasy elements with themes of conservation and Caribbean culture.
Buy it: Vanishing Fish
Caribbean Middle-Grade Books for Kids
Journey Beyond the Burrow by Ria Voros
In this middle-grade novel, 12-year-old Nellie embarks on a magical adventure to save her family’s sugar estate in Barbados. With the help of a talking mongoose, Nellie navigates a hidden world filled with mythical creatures and ancient secrets. As she confronts her fears and discovers her inner strength, Nellie learns the importance of courage, friendship, and standing up for what is right. The lush Caribbean setting and imaginative storytelling make this a captivating read for young readers.
Buy it: Journey Beyond the Burrow
The Sea-Ringed World by María García Esperón and Amanda Mijangos
This beautifully illustrated middle-grade book showcases the poetry and prose of 14 Latin American and Caribbean poets, celebrating the diverse cultures and landscapes of the region. From the sea to the mountains, the poems evoke the beauty and magic of the natural world, inviting readers to explore and appreciate the richness of the Caribbean. With stunning artwork that complements the lyrical text, this book is a visual and literary treasure for young readers.
Buy it: The Sea-Ringed World
Ripening Time by Patrice Gopo
Ripening Time is a heartfelt memoir that explores themes of identity, belonging, and cultural heritage through the author’s personal journey as a Black woman growing up in the United States. Patrice Gopo reflects on her experiences of straddling multiple worlds and the complexities of navigating her racial and cultural identity. Through poignant storytelling and introspection, she invites readers to consider their own paths to self-discovery and understanding.
Buy it: Ripening Time
The Last Last by Wendy J. Whittingham and Brianna McCarthy
This picture book beautifully captures a young girl’s experience of leaving her Jamaican home for Canada. As her family prepares to immigrate, she takes one final walk, savoring the last moments with familiar sights, sounds, and smells. Through vivid prose and vibrant, painterly illustrations, the bittersweet narrative delicately captures the complexity of transition, offering a touching reminder that while we create new memories, the old ones remain in our hearts. A moving exploration of memory, change, and hope.
Buy it: The Last Last
The Peanut Man by Carmen Agra Deedy
A young girl named Coqui immigrates from Cuba to the United States in this poignant picture book that explores themes of memory, home, and belonging. Through her connection with Emilio—a street vendor dubbed “the Peanut Man”—and their
shared love of baseball, the girl navigates the challenges of immigration. The narrative blends humor and heartfelt moments, offering a touching look at resilience and cultural roots. Illustrations rendered in watercolor, colored pencil, and lithograph crayon create expressive, immersive scenes that evoke warmth and achieve historical authenticity. Includes an afterword.
Buy it: The Peanut Man
The Silver Shadow by Mariesa Dulak
Inspired by a real-life incident from her father’s childhood in Barbados, Dulak follows a young girl’s encounter with a stranded baby shark, capturing themes of empathy, bravery, and connection to nature. The narrative’s quiet tension builds as the child defends the shark against her brother’s friends, ultimately ensuring its safety. With evocative, lyrical prose and a gentle exploration of courage, this book fosters respect for wildlife and the delicate balance of life. Textured digital illustrations, blending soft, flowing lines with luminous, colorful palettes create atmospheric seaside scenes that evoke wonder and emotional depth.
