Read Caribbean Month is a celebration of Caribbean stories, voices, and creativity, observed in the month of June. It’s a chance to show appreciation for the writers who’ve shaped, challenged, and lit up the literary world with their words.
Cindy AKA BookofCinz is one of, if not, the most active champions of the initiative. Through her Instagram and book club, she encourages us to “read widely, and read Caribbean, not only in the month of June though. We’ve got to keep it going.
As part of this year’s celebration, we’re taking inspiration from the 2025 Something Bookish Reading Challenge. The 8th prompt is, Speculative Fiction by a Caribbean Author. (btw, speculative fiction is a genre that explores worlds beyond the ordinary, it features magical, supernatural, futuristic, or entirely imagined elements.) Check out these titles.
Barbados
Karen Lord’s Unraveling is a standalone blend of mystery and Caribbean lore that feels both strange and enchanting. It follows two immortals—Chance and Trickster—and a forensic therapist as they dig into a string of unsettling murders. Think mind games, and a touch of the uncanny. In a nutshell, it’s a mindf*ck, the good kind.
Trinidad & Tobago
Ayanna Lloyd Banwo’s debut, When We Were Birds, follows a gravedigger and a young woman who cross paths as the worlds of the living and the dead collide in Trinidad. It’s eerie, emotional, and so immersive, even if you don’t usually reach for fantasy, you’ll want to stay in this world.
Dominican Republic
In Family Lore, Elizabeth Acevedo introduces the magical Marte women—each with a unique gift. One reads lies, another works wonders with herbs, and Flor has dreams that predict death. So when Flor decides to throw herself a living wake, her family can only assume the worst: her time must be near. You’d want to know the drama that ensues.
US Virgin Islands
Told through the distinct voices of a fractured family, The Lesson by Cadwell Turnbull explores personal trauma, resilience, and the ways unexpected change reshapes us from the inside out. It’s intimate, layered, and emotionally gripping. A fantastic debut.
Jamaica
Skin Folk by Nalo Hopkinson is a collection of fifteen stories. These stories twist in unexpected ways and are a real treat for readers who enjoy folklore, sci-fi, or urban fantasy. The writing flows effortlessly, the perspectives are refreshingly unusual. It’s an experience that can’t be explained.
Something Bookish Curators are always on the lookout for the next great read to add to your #TBR. Whether it’s a backlist gem, a breakout debut, the book everyone will be talking about next, or a beloved classic, we’ve got recommendations you won’t want to miss. Join the conversation and read along with us on social!
