Local author Janice George-Harris new book ‘Little Hill Stories’ Launched

Local author Janice George-Harris new book ‘Little Hill Stories’ portrays a range of themes and plots highlighting traditional customs of the 1950s in the British Virgin Islands.

The book, published by Nehesi Publishers, was launched this weekend in Virgin Gorda.

The educator and literacy advocate explained that she drew inspiration from North Sound, Virgin Gorda, her father Roosevelt George and his siblings.

“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,” George-Harris shared in a recent interview with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs and Sports.

The book is an enjoyable read, depicting 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 1950s.

George-Harris said to ensure her book depicted the period accurately by consulting with the elders in  the community including Ethlyn Flax George and Bernice Lennard.

Deputy Director at the Department of Culture Anne Lennard said her department continues to celebrate local authors and that ‘Little Hill Stories’ positively showcases the Virgin Gorda.

“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,”  Lennard added.