Title: Jamaica Absolutely
Edited by: Arif Ali
Reviewed by: Alfred Sangster

The foreword, written by Arif Ali, the editor of this splendid volume, has high marks for the Jamaica which he came to investigate and write about. He remarks: "One should never forget that Jamaica is the land of the Maroons, the land that inspired Marcus Garvey and Bob Marley; a country whose people have chalked up many achievements in any country they have domiciled ... . Even Christopher Columbus said it was 'the fairest isle I have ever laid eyes on'."

In this book, the 21st in the 'Nation's Series', the reader is given a breathtaking review of this 'fairest isle'.

Some Jamaicans abroad have queried why it has taken so long to publish this book about Jamaica, while other smaller Caribbean islands have even had multi-editions. Let it be said, better late than never.

Some 30 individuals have contributed individual essays, many photographers have provided their work, and literally dozens have been acknowledged for their support for the publication of 240 pages.

Fine investment

It is a costly volume, but anyone owning it or donating it to a friend or a visitor would feel this was a fine investment. The early pages have messages from the prime minister, the minister of tourism and the director of tourism, as the volume is endorsed by the tourism ministry.

Each of the topics covered in the book represents an individual essay and as such, will represent the individual views of the author. However, the range of authors with their wide experience and well-known competence will give a fair coverage of Jamaica, absolutely.

The volume is a rich mixture of text and photographs in glorious colour and does the island proud.

It is now available in the island's book stores.