Fiction Lit
"The Windward Road" by Samuel Selvon
Focuses on the immigrant experience in the West Indian community, offering insights into collective identity, cultural heritage, and mental resilience.
"The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao" by Junot Díaz
Combines magical realism with the exploration of family, mental illness, and generational trauma, shedding light on the impact of culture on mental health.
"The Caribbean" by James A. Michener
A sweeping historical novel that delves into Caribbean culture and history, exploring how collective experiences shape individual and community wellness.
"Small Island" by Andrea Levy
A novel that examines migration, identity, and the emotional and psychological toll of racism, offering a nuanced look at mental health within the Caribbean diaspora.
"Crick Crack, Monkey" by Merle Hodge
This novel explores the life of a young girl in Trinidad, highlighting her journey of self-discovery, mental challenges, and cultural conflict.
"The Polished Hoe" by Austin Clarke
A deeply emotional narrative that touches on the effects of trauma, shame, and recovery within the Caribbean context.
"A House for Mr. Biswas" by V.S. Naipaul
A portrayal of personal and mental struggles amidst the complexities of cultural identity and societal pressures in Trinidad.
"In the Castle of My Skin" by George Lamming
This classic novel tells the story of a young boy growing up in Barbados, reflecting on themes of mental resilience, colonialism, and the complexities of Caribbean identity.
Non Fiction Lit
"The Social Origins of Mental Illness: The Experience of Black Caribbean People in the UK" by Neil Thompson
A critical exploration of the mental health challenges faced by Black Caribbean communities, addressing stigma and offering insight into systemic issues.
"The Caribbean: A History of the Region and Its Peoples" by Stephan Palmie and Frances Henry
Provides a deep dive into the Caribbean's history, which can be helpful for understanding the collective trauma and its impact on mental health in the region.
"Self-Care for People of Color: A Guide for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color" by Oludara Adeeyo
Offers mental health and wellness strategies specifically for people of color, addressing systemic racism and cultural barriers in seeking help.
"Caribbean Survivors: Mental Health in the Caribbean" by Peter L. Wehling
A nonfiction book that looks at the specific mental health challenges faced by Caribbean communities, including coping with trauma and stigma.
"Sister Citizen: Shame, Stereotypes, and Black Women in America" by Melissa V. Harris-Perry
Though focused on Black women in the U.S., Harris-Perry’s insights are highly relevant to Caribbean women, addressing the intersection of race, gender, and mental health in the Caribbean context.
"Tales from the Heart of the Caribbean: Caribbean Folk Stories, Fables, and Myths" by Joanne C. Hillhouse
While this is a more creative nonfiction work, it explores the rich traditions of Caribbean culture, which often contain healing wisdom and strategies for addressing personal and community mental health.
Tumaladevi Healing
Minneapolis | 651-925-7486
Jasmine Johnson
Oshun Center
Minneapolis | phone
An integrative health clinic and training center offering Western and Eastern, Afro- and Indigenous approaches to heart, soul and womb healing. We believe in intercultural healing and care that is accessible to EVERY BODY.