Customer Reviews

The Wine of Astonishment (Aventura)

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This fine book is essential reading for anyone interested in Trinidad or in religion, particularly indigenous religions, in the Caribbean. It is the story of a congregation of Shouters or Spiritual Baptists, an African Christian religion that was banned and persecuted by British colonial authorities, as they struggle with the conflict between worshipping as they believe they should and conforming to the heavy hand of the law. As such, it also has much to say concerning the cultural and psychological costs of colonization. It is a short, simple, engaging and profound novel, one of the best from the Caribbean. Highly recommended.

The Wine of Astonishment is a magnificently crafted piece of literature. For anyone who has read "The Dragon Can't Dance" or any of Lovelace's other works are familiar with the colloquial style of his writing, which captures the Trinidadian vernacular at its finest. This story centers around a people facing religious persecution, and holding on to dearly to their cultural identity. Metaphorically, they're seeking someone to rise up & become the saviour of their village, in the mold of Christ. If you've read "The Dragon Can't Dance" or Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart," you will see some parallels, but still be impressed. Overall, a very good read and one worth recommending.

Is not what I expected, even though is not a bad book. I expected something a little more 'fast', but is a kind of slow story. However, like I said before is not a bad book only different to say so. It reminds me Acehebe's work (racism) and is not too long so people can read it in a day or two.

Arrived within 1 or 2 weeks. Really Fast service, and it was on excellent condition.

This is the best book that I've read in the last 10 years.
Politics , social commentary , religion , it's all in here.
Set in Trinidad , Wine... follows a church leader , his family
and their surrounding community , as they grapple with a wide
array of social ills. Beyond a good book. This one's a classic.