Another local author Mrs. Janice George-Harris, will be launching her book titled, ‘Little Hill Stories’ on Saturday May 6.

Mrs. George-Harris, who is also a trained educator and advocate for enhanced literacy among children, said the setting for the literary text is North Sound, Virgin Gorda, where the launch will also take place. It highlights the boyhood adventures of the author’s father, Mr. Roosevelt George, and his siblings.

Mrs. George-Harris stated, “Little Hill Stories can provide the stimulus that some students need to engage with literature. As they read, students will be able to identify with the characters and learn from their experiences.”   According to the author, the text also depicts adventure, mischief, classroom and church experiences, jumbie fright, and the chores of boys and girls come alive. Chapters include “The Lesson,” “Sunday’s Sin”, “Truant”, and “Water Woes” which portray a range of themes and plots that embrace the traditional customs of the 1950’s.

Mrs. George-Harris added that to ensure that the social context of the book was accurate, she held consultations with the elders in the community including Ethlyn Flax George and Bernice Lennard, who provided specific information on important sites and customs of the day.

The book was published by Nehesi Publishers.

Meanwhile, Deputy Director at the Department of Culture Ms. Anne Lennard said her department continues to celebrate local authors and the variety of subject areas that is written about.

Ms. Lennard said the island of Virgin Gorda continues to be featured internationally for its natural beauty and its people, and ‘Little Hill Stories’ has added positively to its image.

Ms. Lennard added, “We applaud author Janice George-Harris on compiling a book comprising entirely of family stories which will be preserved for generations. We encourage the public to come out and support this event and secure their copies of the book as early as possible.”

Persons are encouraged to attend the launch on Saturday May 6, at the Methodist Church Yard, in North Sound Virgin Gorda, at 2:30 p.m.

The Department of Culture continues to promote the contributions of local authors, and the Virgin Islands’ cultural heritage and traditions.

For more information about the Department of Culture’s book launch programme, persons can contact the department at 468-4379.