J is for Jamaica

By Benjamin Zephaniah Photographs by Prodeepta Das


J is for Jamaica
Online price: £6.99
Paperback, 32 pages
Published: 15th January 2009

Category: Cultural Diversity, Picture information

Series: World Alphabet
Interest age, years: From 4 To 7
Key Stage: GEOG KS 1&2, ENG RDG KS 1&2

From Cricket to Pumpkin, from Hummingbird to Yam - this is a photographic alphabet showing Jamaica in all its colourful diversity. In vibrant rhyming verse, Benjamin Zephaniah explores some of the sights, sounds and tastes of Jamaica, from the bustling capital of Kingston, to the peaceful and serene Blue Mountain. A perfect way to introduce children to this small and beautiful Caribbean island with a big heart.

The striking coloured photographs on each page breathe meaning into the diversity of Jamaican life and contrast vividly the sometimes drab existence we have in the UK Not only in the bright colours but in the attitudes to life, which is for living, and love, which is for everyone - Carousel

... beautifully vibrant photographs ... What makes this different from similar books, and therefore special for me, is that Benjamin doesn't stick to the usual touristy sights but shows us the zinc roofs of the downtown shanty towns in Kingston, the hair plaiting and the gatherings on the veranda, which are so much a part of life at the heart of the island. A lovely introduction to Jamaica for children ... - Junior Education

This book is an enchanting way of introducing children to this beautiful Caribbean island, as well as sharing in Benjamin Zephaniah's passion for poetry. Prodeepta Das's photographs add authenticity and atmosphere to the book - Books for Keeps

With a vivid poem and photograph for each letter of the alphabet, this is a beautiful introduction to all aspects of life in Jamaica. Sugar cane, pumpkin and ugli fruit are just some of the gorgeous foods on show, netball and cricket some of the sports. And behind it all is the wonderful background of a beautiful country. A book to feast the eye and the ear - Book Ahead 0-7

This well-known series of photographically illustrated books has expanded to cover many worldwide localities. Although it is, strictly speaking, non-fiction the text here is unusual, and rather special: lovely, witty verses covering Jamaican life and people from A to Z. The author’s obvious affinity with this island comes across well, as folklore, poverty, colour and crops are all covered in sharp-eyed, sharply written pages with evocative photographs as a perfect accompaniment. - Boys into Books 5-11 Riveting Reads

The verses are as full of Jamaican beauty as the stunning photographs. - Ibby Link

With a vivid poem and photograph for each letter of the alphabet, this is a vivid introduction to all aspects of life in Jamaica. Sugar cane, pumpkin and Ugli fruit are just some of the gorgous food on show; netball and cricket are among the sports. Behind all are Prodeepta Das's atmospheric and vibrant photographs of a beautiful country. - Guardian

Mm is for Markets - here things are bought and sold.

The vegetables are very fresh and lovely to behold.

The sellers sing their bargains and the buyers pay the price,

And even if you do not buy, just going can be nice.



Publication Details:

Binding: Paperback, 32 pages
ISBN: 9781845076092
Format: 214mm x 280mm
colour illustrations

BIC Code: YBC, YNM
BISAC Code:  JNF038050
Imprint: Frances Lincoln Children's Books


Other visitors also viewed:
Gorilla
The Outlying Fells of Lakeland Second Edition
Kicking On
The Meadow