Another Review at MyShelf.Com

Publisher: TFG Press
Release Date: 2002
ISBN: 0-9720017-5-1
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Genre: Fiction/Contemporary/AA
Reviewed: 2003
Reviewer: Beverly J. Rowe
Reviewer Notes: Author's Website

Broken Gourds
By Beresford McLean 

      Broken Gourds is an intriguing story of cultural clash and political unrest in a small Jamaican community that is destined to become a folklore classic. McLean is an exciting new voice in contemporary literature who writes with a master's touch. The offbeat characters, and the clash of cultures entwined with the political unrest in this Caribbean paradise provides the central theme in this novel of historical Jamaica. I fell in love with the wretched, deformed Twig who was so dependent on Dada, the wise, loving grandmother, and the other assorted characters of this island Shangri-La.

     The metamorphosis of Dada, a 29-year-old man, seemingly incompetent and possibly mentally handicapped, into a spiritual leader: the politically powerful, articulate and charismatic Brother Walk, is a compelling story. The beliefs of the old Ashanti community's ancient culture sometimes clash with the sophisticated, modern, non-African ideals, and the love and loyalty contrast with the jealously and animosity in the lives of these people. "Ironically," says Mr. McLean, "the very elements that rocked this rustic Jamaican farming village a century ago are still at the core of mankind's search for a sense of self today."

     McLean's great imagination, and eloquent prose take you on a journey through the lives of these island denizens that will long remain in your heart. I thoroughly enjoyed this compelling story with its unexpected twists in the plot that keep you reading long into the night. I hope there is a sequel in Mr. McLean's future. I'll sure watch for it.

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