What are you reading this Christmas? These are perfect for gifting (or treating yourself!) this holiday season – a mix of fiction, poetry, memoir, faith, and children’s stories from voices rooted in the region. Here are ten authors whose works make perfect holiday gifts:
- Latoyaa Roberts
- The Tide Reclaims: A climate-fiction novella about love and resilience on an island threatened by rising seas.
- Why she’s a must: Her storytelling combines heart, activism, and Caribbean roots — ideal for someone who loves character-driven, meaningful fiction.
2. Patrice London
- Lisa: A charming romance set in Port of Spain, Trinidad, about love, self-worth, and community.
- Why her: Her voice brings contemporary Caribbean life to vivid, warm life — perfect for romance readers.
3. Charlene Andrews
- Dancing Through the Rain: Motivational poetry on themes like loss, hope, and resilience.
- Rising out of the Ashes: More of her emotional, uplifting work.
- Why her: Her poetry is healing and inspiring — great for readers who appreciate reflection and emotional depth.
4. Ria Mulraine-Durant
- God Lifted Me Up!: A spiritually rich collection of over thirty poems rooted in faith and scripture.
- Why her: For those who find strength in faith and spiritual poetry, this book uplifts and encourages.
5. Allan Rai
- Breath of Resilience in the Face of Death: A memoir of his COVID-19 experience in Trinidad and Tobago.
- Why him: His story is raw and courageous — a powerful reminder of resilience and survival.
6. Kino Sammy
- The Unfinished Republic: A political / historical novel following a woman’s fight for leadership in Tobago.
- Why him: His work explores power, identity, and social change — ideal for readers interested in Caribbean politics and history.
7. Ainka Moore
- I Am That I Am: A daily-affirmation book with wisdom and exercises to build self-awareness and confidence.
- Why her: A gentle, empowering guide for someone looking to grow personally, spiritually, or emotionally.
8. Cameka Alexander
- A Full Spectrum of Penmanship Gym Activities: Designed to support fine motor skills, especially for learners with dyslexia, dyspraxia, or dysgraphia.
- Why her: It’s not just a book — it’s a tool for learning and inclusion; a thoughtful gift for parents, educators, or neurodivergent learners.
9. Shivon Meijas
- Jade’s Trip into Town: A children’s story about a curious girl’s first adventure into town.
- Why her: This is a sweet, imaginative read for kids — or for parents to read aloud — with strong Caribbean flavor.
10. Jade Meijas
- My Super Hairo: Why I Love My Afro Hair: Written by a 12-year-old, this story celebrates natural hair, identity, and self-love.
- Why her: It’s empowering, joyful, and affirming — especially for young readers learning to love themselves and their heritage.
Why This Is a Special Christmas List
- Supports Caribbean talent: By choosing from Books by LR’s authors, you uplift local voices and contribute to regional literature.
- Diverse genres: From memoir and poetry to children’s books and self-help — there’s something for every reader.
- Meaningful themes: Many of these works touch on resilience, identity, faith, and belonging — fitting for the reflective, hopeful spirit of the season.
So go out and support these local authors or any other that you like today. Make reading a pleasure for the Christmas and a habit that you can carry into 2026.
Books by Latoyaa Roberts 