And last in our Black History Month themed series of reviews is an oldie but a goody:
The Lonely Londoners by Sam Selvon
This is worth a re-read especially since the Windrush Scandal which all too recently added devastating insult to
injury to families who came to the UK during the 1950s and 60s from the West Indies.
It is a reminder that although the UK was painted as the 'land of milk and honey' in the media with promises of job opportunities and a richer way of life the
existing communities were not interested in helping new immigrants to settle. This a short
but very atmospheric novel written in a creolised English dialect following
newly landed Moses Aloetta as he searches to make friendly contacts to find a
place to live and work. The Lonely
Londoners was written by Trinidadian author, Sam Selvon, who emigrated to
London himself and it is an insider’s view of the struggles and eventually the
triumphs of finding allies to make you feel at home in a cold new city.
Have a restful half term and enjoy some reading for pleasure and relaxation!
Ms Johns