1. ISBN13: 9780375705045
2. Condition: NEW
3. Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.

Customer Review :

Expecting more...

I was hesitant to read this book since it was an Oprah Book Club pick. Sometimes her books are very deep and thought inspiring and, while that is a good thing, I wasn't looking for that when I picked a book to read! Nonetheless, I picked it up and delved in.

I really expected a heart wrenching tale of a child (Sophie) struggling to make it in America while connecting with a mom she didn't know and missing a family back in Haiti that she was ripped away from. I didn't get that. A lot of her time in America was glossed over; her internal struggles weren't really relayed and the development of a relationship with her mom never did play out like I thought it would.

The author's writing is very simplistic. It's easy to follow--almost too easy! I felt like I was reading a book that was aimed towards a different generation (like teens maybe?)... I LIKED the book, but I didn't love it. Many parts of the book I found interesting - I loved reading about Haiti, the people, the tales, scenery, etc. I really wanted more out of this book though. There was one shocker at the end that really threw me but other than that it was just an O.K. read. Am I glad I read it? Yes... Would I hold on to it to read again? No.

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Reading with Tequila

Breath, Eyes, Memory is the story of the suffering of three women bound by family ties. It was strongly emotional with some heavy themes. The repercussions of rape, the cultural value of virginity and how mothers routinely sexually abuse their daughters in order to preserve their honor were all covered in great detail. The descriptions of Haitian culture both in Haiti and in the United States were fascinating.

The book flowed well and held my interest much more than I expected. The ending was filled with sadness and quite unexpected. Breath, Eyes, Memory was not my usual fare, but it was very good and more than a little eye-opening.

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Great novel

This is a great novel about the diaspora of a Haitian girl to the US. Beautifully written, is the story of how mother and daughter come to terms in the new environment. I strongly recommend it to all readers.

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Breath, Eyes, Memory

First I would like to say thank you to Linda Jones for introducing this wonderful author to me. Being a Haitian girl who grew up in Brooklyn, this is the first time I have seen someone wrote about some of the issues I had face in my life. In all her stories I can relate somewhat to some of the issues the characters faces. I feel as if the Haitian women finally have a voice.
Thank you Edwidge!


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Haitian horror story

"Breath, Eyes, Memory" is the story of a young Haitian girl, Sophie, whose mother travels to New York when her daughter is very young, leaving Sophie in the care of her Tante Atie. Eventually Sophie's mother sends for her child, and the girl must travel to the United States to start a new life. I thought this book would focus on the struggles of a Haitian girl adjusting to American society, but Sophie's real demons lay with her family's tragic history, which unfolds bit by bit as the years go by. Sophie ultimately breaks away from her mother but is unable to escape from the horrors of her past. She eventually returns to her home country in search of answers and redemption.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The subject matter is difficult to read, but this book depicts a lifestyle that was a reality for so many Haitian women. Although Sophie and her female relatives endure many tragedies throughout the course of this story, "Breath, Eyes, Memory" also celebrates strong family ties and the power that comes with being a woman. This is truly an amazing book.

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1. ISBN13: 9780374527075
2. Condition: NEW
3. Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.

Editorial Review :

A brilliant look at colonialism and its effects in Antigua--by the author of Annie John

"If you go to Antigua as a tourist, this is what you will see. If you come by aeroplane, you will land at the V. C. Bird International Airport. Vere Cornwall (V. C.) Bird is the Prime Minister of Antigua. You may be the sort of tourist who would wonder why a Prime Minister would want an airport named after him--why not a school, why not a hospital, why not some great public monument. You are a tourist and you have not yet seen . . ."

So begins Jamaica Kincaid's expansive essay, which shows us what we have not yet seen of the ten-by-twelve-mile island in the British West Indies where she grew up.

Lyrical, sardonic, and forthright by turns, in a Swiftian mode, A Small Place cannot help but amplify our vision of one small place and all that it signifies.

Customer Review :

Good

It was in good condition.. The book however was a little confusing at times because the author is letting us know what she's thinking all the time in "()". However, it was alright.. Be prepared to hear how much she hates American and European tourists.. lol

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Beautifully Written, Regardless of Your Politics

I love this book because it is beautifully written- lyrical, poetic, smart. I think she captures her complicated opinions on the culture and history of Antigua wonderfully. It's a brutally honest book, which I think is refreshing. As far as I know, and I may be wrong, she doesn't really represent this as anything other than her opinion. So by "brutally honest," I don't mean everything in it is true, in a textbook kind of way. I just mean that she expresses an eloquent, honest, complicated, contradictory portrait of how she feels. And the writing is beautiful. It's best described as a "poetic essay." If you're looking for a travel guide or a straight non-fiction history book, this isn't it and it shouldn't be marketed that way.

I don't feel strongly about the politics of this book, nor did I feel particularly hated (I'm a white American), but I guess I could see how you might feel that way if you are the sort of person who takes everything personally.

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fantastic

This was a wonderful book. Antigua is a very "Small Place" but it really looks at the big picture and illustrates colonialism and neocolonialism as it happened all around the world. A really heartbreaking portrait of the island of Antigua.

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No Information Just Full of Malice

I was expecting an interesting book that would educate me on this island before I traveled there. What I read was a dreadful book full of hatred and malice. If you are looking for information, go elsewhere. If you are looking for a book filled with anglican hatred, you have found yourself a gem!

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Book Delivery

The book came in a really timely manner, within a week of it being ordered, and it was in great condition.

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1. ISBN13: 9780944428863
2. Condition: NEW
3. Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.
4. Click here to view our Condition Guide and Shipping Prices

Editorial Review :

Completely revised and updated for 2009-2011 edition with full color sketch charts, these guides have been indispensable companions for sailors and visitors to these islands since 1982. Includes a FREE 17 x 27 inch color planning chart covering the Virgin Islands from St. Thomas to Anegada. Information covers: Anchoring and mooring information and fees; Customs, immigration and National Parks regulations; Particulars on marina facilities and the amenities they offer; Water sports - where to go and where to rent equipment; Shore-side facilities, restaurants, beach bars, shops, provisions, Internet connections; Alphabetical - by island - Directory of goods and services. Everything you will need to help make your vacation an enjoyable and memorable experience in a concise easy-to-use format.

Customer Review :

Back to basics

This is the fourth time I buy "Cruising Guide to the BVI", the first one was back in 1995. It continues to be the basic guide to sail in the area and the work Nancy and Simon Scott are doing to its constant updating and upgrading makes this guide an essential tool for anyone who loves to spend some time afloat in that sailing paradise. Congratulations to the authors. I'll hope to be there to buy the next edition!!

Rating :

Excellent cruising guide

This is the third cruising guide that I have purchased for the VI over the years, this one lives up to my high expectations for content and relevance.

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Getting ready for BVI

" Cruising Guide to the Vergin Islands" is a wonderful wish book if you are getting ready to go to the Islands for a charter vacation. It is loaded with information on routes, anchorages, what to do ashore, what to eat at the many out of the way places located on the coves and harbors scattered around the Vergin Islands. It's divided between the Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands to keep things simple. It even gives some insight on how real estate can be had if you want to Live the dream..Even a chart so you can plot your routes around the Islands. Good reading even if you never make the trip.

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1. ISBN13: 9781400008650
2. Condition: NEW
3. Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.

Editorial Review :

Fodor’s. For Choice Travel Experiences.

Fodor’s helps you unleash the possibilities of travel by providing the insightful tools you need to experience the trips you want. Although you’re at the helm, Fodor’s offers the assurance of our expertise, the guarantee of selectivity, and the choice details that truly define a destination. It’s like having a friend in the U.S. & British Virgin Islands!

•Updated annually, Fodor’s U.S. & British Virgin Islands provides the most accurate and up-to-date information available in a guidebook.

•Fodor’s U.S. & British Virgin Islands features options for a variety of budgets, interests, and tastes, so you make the choices to plan your trip of a lifetime.

•If it’s not worth your time, it’s not in this book. Fodor’s discriminating ratings, including our top tier Fodor’s Choice designations, ensure that you’ll know about the most interesting and enjoyable places in the U.S. & British Virgin Islands.

•Experience the U.S. & British Virgin Islands like a local! Fodor’s U.S. & British Virgin Islandsincludes choices for every traveler, from scuba diving, kayaking, and horseback riding to the best beaches ideal for relaxing and family fun, and much more!

•Indispensable, customized trip planning tools include “Top Reasons to Go,” “Word of Mouth” advice from other travelers, and tips to help save money, bypass lines, and avoid common travel pitfalls.

Visit Fodors.com for more ideas and information, travel deals, vacation planning tips, reviews and to exchange travel advice with other travelers.

Customer Review :

Another Fodor Planning Tool for the Perfect Getaway

Another Fodor Planning Tool for the Perfect Getaway

This is the 22nd edition of Foder's full color guide to the U. S. & British Virgin Islands. The five main islands: St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda are featured. A full chapter is devoted to each island and includes highlights specific to the island, tips on getting oriented, and a complete planning guide.

I appreciated the descriptive recommendations of hotels, restaurants, and the numerous scenic sights to visit. The simple planning tools are designed to help the first time visitor get the most enjoyment from their time in the islands and for the veteran traveler to plan the details of their trip.

The book includes information on the ferries which travel between the islands, and provides suggestions for weddings and honeymoons. Opportunities abound for diving and snorkeling, for chartering a yacht, the best places for beach combing, day sails, and shopping.

There are over 120 stunning color photos as well as over 20 maps of the islands. The Fodor professional reviewers have captured the essence of the culture, points of interest, the best places to eat, to stay, and a cross section of entertainment to make your visit a memorable and enjoyable experience.

This is definitely another Fodor winner


Rating :

Really informative and well written

I got this on sort of a lark. I'd been watching some House Hunters International episodes and saw one on the US Virgin Islands, and then this book popped up. I'd never read a travel book before and was very surprised how much I liked it.
First, I've traveled quite a bit for my job. I've been to twenty or so countries and never had advanced knowledge of what to expect in any of them. True, most of the time I went from airport (or train station) to hotel to server room and back, so I didn't really need too much info on the country I was visiting, but still, it would have been nice.
Containing great heaps of info on sites, costs, how-to's and other need-to-know items, this book could prove indispensable in planning and then taking your trip. Just the information on customs and passport needs and differences between the BVI and the USVI could save you a lot of worry and time. Even the info on where smoking is allowed (or not allowed) might make a non-smokers dinner plans easier.
Before I go to Europe next year, and I've been there a bunch, I'll be getting one of these for each country we plan to visit.

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Invaluable vacation guide

Having never been to the Caribbean, I figured a travel guide is in order. Now that I have one, I can say that there is more information than I can take. Information overload. But it's necessary for future vacations.

From planning the trip to geography, Fodor's U.S. & British Virgin Islands guide provides all the details necessary. Ferry routes, plane tickets, what to be wary of, it's all included.

Beautiful photos and explanations of local flair, customs, and a breakdown of each island makes this guide invaluable. There is literally no stone unturned. It's like the Virgin Island for dummies, even giving a FAQ for travelers who may ask stupid questions over and over again.

Highly recommended.

Rating :

comprehensive guide for anything you need to know

Full of colorful, breathtaking photos that you want to dive into from where you sit, Fodor's latest guide to the U.S. and British Virgin Islands is the kind of book you want to pick up and study at any odd moment. There is always something new to absorb (amusing bit of information: don't leave your car window down when you're parked on one of the islands or you might find a newly-laid egg on the seat, compliments of some of the itinerant livestock that roam freely). Everything from where to stay for any given price range, to caveats about shopping (some of the islands don't have well-stocked grocery stores and are expensive), are covered in this informative and entertaining guide which should probably be in everyone's carry-on for a trip to these beautiful islands. Warnings about rules, erratic ferry schedules, what you should and shouldn't bring, along with all the pluses such as histories, prices, events, and the weather you might expect fills the pages of this neat little book - for its slim size, packed with everything that is probably needed for a vacation of any duration. The book is well-constructed for the inevitable overuse such a guide will endure, and should hold up well to being left open upside-down, crammed into a pack, or dripped on (wipeable cover). Very readable and interesting.

Rating :

Very pretty book but lacks local flavor

This is a very nice looking little volume detailing the U.S. & British Virgin Islands. Since my wife and I were planning to visit there this year I thought I should read up on where we should go and what we should do.

The book is grouped into chapters by island, with recommendations for Beaches, Where to Eat, Where to Stay, Sports and the Outdoors, Shopping, and Nightlife for each island. There is also a separate section for diving and snorkeling as well as chartering a yacht. Each chapter is labeled with a quote from a Fodor's online user. These quotes may have seemed like a good idea, but they seem a little unhelpful to me. The opening section of each chapter is the most helpful, where the writers give a brief breakdown of the island - a little history, a little contemporary update and a little bit of what to expect as a tourist.

But while this book does provide plenty of strikingly beautiful "full color" pictures throughout, it's a little lighter on information than I would have liked, especially when it comes to "local" recommendations.

Though the book is written by two local travel writers, the biggest complaint I have with it is that most of the items marked as "Fodor's Choice" throughout the book (whether restaurants, hotels, or beaches) seem to be the most high-end tourist-centric places. Rarely do they recommend an out of the way local eatery or a small-but-homey villa for vacationing. Perhaps the writers are writing for a more upscale audience, but it seems to eliminate much of the local flavor of a vacation spot if the majority of the recommendations are labeled $$$$ (most expensive). I just don't think I need a travel book to tell me that the Ritz Carlton on St. Thomas is going to be a great place to stay.

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Editorial Review :

During two centuries of independence from colonial rule, Haiti has developed into a society quite distinct from those found in the rest of the region. Hollywood-derived images of black magic and Graham Greene-inspired conceptions of a "nightmare republic" do scant justice to the reality of life for those who make up the third largest population in the Caribbean. How did the slaves of France's most prosperous colony defeat the armies of Napoleon, Spain, and Britain? Why did the U.S. occupation of 1915-34 fail to establish a plantation economy in Haiti? Haiti in Focus is an authoritative and up-to-date guide to this fascinating country. The guide explores the land, history and politics, economy, society and people, culture and environment, and includes tips on where to go and what to see.

Customer Review :

Not much depth but good approach

Too bad the book is too short and doe not go into the details of the pre- and post- independence periods of Haiti, whiwh are crucial for the country's future to come then. Otherwise a good 1st approach to the global situation of Haiti.

Rating :

Haiti - a short introduction

This is a thin booklet providing a nice overview of Haitian culure, politics and history: it contains a little bit of everything, illustrated by photographs. The scope of the book is limited, however, and considering political conflicts and agenda, it has aged a bit since 2002 edition. I like the fact that the booklet invites you to further reading, including online resources. At times, I found the language a bit twisted and information a bit insufficient (which is to be expected). If you feel you're missing some general knowledge on Haiti, this is an excellent book to start with (and easy to take with you anywhere), but make sure you update yourself with the latest political issues, before making a decision to travel there. In the time of writing this review, most Western countries advise their citizens not to travel to Haiti. That being said, I think the front page photo provides a great insight ...

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A Great Overview of Haiti

This little book is very thorough, accurate, and informative. This book isn't meant for the causual globe-trotting tourist but for someone who really wants to understand Haiti. The book touches on several subjects (history, agriculture, politics, religion) and then links the subjects together in a simple but thorough way that makes sense.

It also touches on important but obscure subjects like why the well-intentioned eradication of the poor farmers' "Creole Pigs" in the 1980s led to much of the rural problems today. Or why 5 Gourdes (Haiti money) is called "one dollar", which is something that confuses new visitors.

This isn't a deep, complex book either. It's easy to read. And it doesn't seem to have any particular political bias.

If you want a good book on Haiti, this is it!

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Good overview of Haiti

Don't purchase this book if you're looking for an in-depth travel book, an economic or cultural primer. Do purchase this book if you would like to get a general overview of Haiti, that includes a brief mention of the voodoo religion (spelled voodou in the book). It's a good starter book to learn more about the unspoken half of island of Hispanola. A quick read.

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great info on Haiti

really comprehensive view of politics and life in haiti. useful tips for the traveler to Haiti including where to buy condoms!

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