The River Mumma Wants Out (Further Reading)

Further Reading

• Adams, L. Emilie, and Llewelyn Dada Adams, Understanding Jamaican Patois: An Introduction to Afro-Jamaican Grammar, LMH Publishers, 1991.

  A unique language has formed in Jamaica, combining English and African lexicons. With the popularity of reggae, Jamaican patois has come to be heard all over the world. This book helps people living outside Jamaica understand some of the popular phrases.

• Jekyll, Walter, Jamaican Song and Story: Annancy Stories, Digging Sings, Ring Tunes, and Dancing Tunes, Dover Publications, 2005.

  This books provides an overview of some of Jamaica's mythology through stories and songs. Extensive notes and explanations are provided, giving the reader a full understanding of the stories' significance.

• Mack, Douglas R. A., From Babylon to Rastafari: Origin and History of the Rastafarian Movement, Frontline Distribution International, 1999.

  Much of the poetry of Jamaica is captured in the nation's popular music, much of which expresses the beliefs of the Rastafarian movement. This book was written by a member of that movement, which represents the ongoing struggle for total freedom.

• Monteith, Kathleen, and Glen Richards, eds., Jamaica in Slavery and Freedom: History, Heritage, and Culture, University of West Indies Press, 2002.

  This text offers a comprehensive overview of the history of Jamaica, from the Arawak to Marcus Garvey to contemporary culture.

• Stolzoff, Norman C., Wake the Town and Tell the People: Dancehall Culture in Jamaica, Duke University Press, 2000.

  Stolzoff has written a comprehensive study of Jamaican music, addressing its production, its star performers, and its influence on the people. Further, Stolzoff carefully delineates the music's political and cultural influences. Much of Jamaica's poetry is presented through song; within this poetry, the voices of rebellion can still be heard.