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[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Island in the Sun - Growing up in Jamaica 1948-1954" by Monica Carly.]

Even though I didn't grow up in Jamaica, I did grow up around the same time as the author, so the setting of Island in the Sun: Growing up in Jamaica 1948-1954 interested me for that reason. Monica Carly moved from England to Jamaica when she was a pre-teen. When I was that age, my family moved from a small town in Ohio to a large city in southern California, so it was easy for me to relate to the challenges the move presented for her as a young girl. The stories in this coming-of-age memoir do not appear chronologically but are arranged by topics such as food, education, religion, and slavery. I like that the author includes personal photos at the end of each chapter which gives credibility to the stories.

In addition to the personal anecdotes, the author includes information such as who introduced the various fruits to the island, the history of slavery, and the geographical features of the land. The narrative writing flows so smoothly that these inserted facts do not interrupt the tales being told.

Family is an important theme throughout Carly's book. It is most prevalent in the chapter "Our Father, Who Deserves a Place in Heaven." This chapter is an extended obituary of the life of the author's father as a minister and an educator. She describes the legacy he left for his family after a heart attack claimed his life at age 62.

This is not a riveting read, but it is engaging. The majority of the anecdotes are positive recollections, and the author's response to any conflicts such as a hurricane or a nine-month separation from her family is calm acceptance. Chapter 13 "The Dark Side of the Sun" does contain some issues related to the island inhabitants such as poverty, poor education, and class distinction. Readers who are looking for a memoir full of overcoming life's obstacles might be disappointed, but I did not consider this a negative.

My rating is four out of five stars. There are enough grammatical errors to warrant a star deduction. I enjoyed learning the history of a location I only previously viewed as a beach party travel destination. The author states that she had an "inescapable compulsion to create a lasting record of her time in Jamacia" and I believe she has accomplished that goal.

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Island in the Sun - Growing up in Jamaica 1948-1954
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It sounds like "Island in the Sun: Growing up in Jamaica 1948-1954" by Monica Carly offers a rich blend of personal anecdotes and historical insights. The thematic organization and inclusion of personal photos seem to add depth to the storytelling. Your review highlights the author's calm acceptance of challenges and the focus on family, making it a relatable and engaging read. Despite some grammatical errors, it seems like a worthwhile exploration of a unique time and place.

Diana Lowery appreciates "Island in the Sun: Growing up in Jamaica 1948-1954" for its relatable coming-of-age stories and informative insights into Jamaican history and culture. She particularly enjoy the inclusion of personal photos and the seamless integration of factual information into the narrative. While acknowledging some grammatical errors, she praised the author's ability to create a lasting record of her time in Jamaica and rate the book four out of five stars for its engaging storytelling and educational value.

MAHAD BAIG MIRZA wrote: ↑17 May 2024, 06:07 Diana Lowery appreciates "Island in the Sun: Growing up in Jamaica 1948-1954" for its relatable coming-of-age stories and informative insights into Jamaican history and culture. She particularly enjoy the inclusion of personal photos and the seamless integration of factual information into the narrative. While acknowledging some grammatical errors, she praised the author's ability to create a lasting record of her time in Jamaica and rate the book four out of five stars for its engaging storytelling and educational value.

Thank you for your unique post. I think this is the first time someone has commented on my review in the third person.

This review provides valuable insights into the book "Island in the Sun: Growing up in Jamaica 1948-1954" by Monica Carly. The reviewer appreciates how the author shares personal anecdotes and weaves in historical and cultural information seamlessly. They mention that the book is engaging, although not riveting, and highlights the importance of family throughout the memoir. Despite some grammatical errors, the reviewer gives it a positive rating and enjoys learning about Jamaica beyond its touristy image. Overall, this review suggests that the book is worth reading for those interested in a unique coming-of-age story set in Jamaica. Brilliant execution, flawlessly crafted and executed.

Well, from this here review, it looks like Island in the Sun: Growing up in Jamaica 1948-1954 by Monica Carly is a darn good read. The reviewer seems to enjoy how the stories are organized and the personal photos included. They even mention that the writing flows smoothly, with interesting facts woven in without interrupting the tales. This memoir seems to focus on family and the author's experiences in Jamaica, with a positive tone overall. Though it ain't a riveting read with obstacles overcome, the reviewer still found it engaging. They deducted a star for some grammatical errors but still gave it four outta five stars. So, reckon it's worth givin' a try if ya wanna learn 'bout Jamaica and enjoy some personal stories along the way. Unpredictable plot twists, kept me guessing.

You are most welcome, it was very intriguing to read through your review. I really liked it. I will also read your other reviews as well and will comment on them . I really hope they will improve my learning and development here. Your review writing skills are exceptional. Thank you.

an absorbing account of young English woman experiencing the joy and facing the challenge of he unique pathway through adolescence