48 pages 1 hour read

Kei Miller

Augustown: A Novel

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2016

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Augustown by Kei Miller weaves between 1920 and 1982 in the fictional village of Augustown, Jamaica, focusing on Ma Taffy and her grandnephew Kaia. After Kaia's dreadlocks are cut off by his teacher, Ma Taffy recounts the legend of Alexander Bedward, the Flying Preacherman, highlighting themes of identity, religion, and history. The novel addresses themes of violence, domestic and sexual abuse, discrimination, and anti-Blackness.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Kei Miller's Augustown has been widely praised for its lyrical prose and rich portrayal of Jamaican culture and history. Critics applaud its compelling narrative and depth of character. However, some find the pacing uneven and the intertwining of multiple storylines complex. Overall, it’s a profound exploration of identity and resilience.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Augustown?

Readers of Augustown by Kei Miller would appreciate vivid, lyrical narratives that delve into the complexities of Jamaican culture, spirituality, and history. Fans of Marlon James' A Brief History of Seven Killings or Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude will find similar themes of magical realism and social commentary captivating.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

940L

Book Details

Themes

Identity: Race

Relationships: Family

Society: Colonialism

Topics

Race / Racism

History: World

Religion / Spirituality

Genre

Historical Fiction

Magical Realism