Escape Velocity and the Paradise Paradox

“If I ever go looking for my heart’s desire again, I won’t look any further than my own back yard. Because if it isn’t there, I never really lost it to begin with… There’s no place like home.”

– Dorothy, The Wizard of Oz

Published in 1988, A Small Place takes us to Antigua, Kincaid’s homeland, not as sun-drenched tourist brochures portray it to be, but as a nation grappling with the scars of its past. Through sharp observations and lyrical prose, Kincaid confronts the pervasive poverty, environmental destruction, and political corruption that mar the island’s beauty. But this book is far more than just a scathing indictment. Kincaid weaves her personal experiences growing up in Antigua, creating a poignant tapestry of love, frustration, and a fierce protectiveness towards her homeland. She challenges both colonizers and tourists to see beyond the postcard facade and acknowledge the real human cost of their presence.

For readers of Caribbean and diasporic fiction, A Small Place resonates on multiple levels. Kincaid’s unflinching gaze at the legacies of colonialism will undoubtedly spark discussions about power dynamics, historical injustices, and the ongoing struggle for self-determination. Her personal, conversational narrative adds a relatable human dimension, while her sharp wit and language offer a uniquely friendly and personal reading experience.

What awaits you?

• A provocative blend of memoir, essay, and social commentary.
• Unflinching critiques and examinations of colonialism, tourism, and political corruption.
• A nuanced exploration of love, identity, and belonging.
• Vivid portrayals of Antigua’s landscape and people.
• A powerful challenge to our perceptions of “paradise” and its human costs.

So, dear book club members, are you ready to embark on this thought-provoking journey? Buckle up and prepare to engage in lively discussions about colonialism, tourism, and the multifaceted realities of small places. A Small Place promises to be an unforgettable read, one that will linger long after you turn the final page.

Next, we are embarking on seven more destinations with Less. Hold onto your boarding passes, bookworms! We’re departing Antigua this winter, and jet-setting around the globe with Andrew Sean Greer’s witty and poignant novel. Don’t be fooled by the title – this hilarious adventure is about so much more than avoiding an ex’s wedding.

Arthur Less, our endearingly flawed protagonist, is a writer approaching his 50th birthday. Facing rejection, professional stagnation, and an ever-looming ex-partner’s wedding invitation, Arthur embarks on a series of globetrotting escapades, on a journey that takes him from Mexico to Italy, Germany, Morocco, India, and Japan, each location offering a vibrant new lens through which to examine life, love, and the ever-elusive concept of “success.”

For travel literature enthusiasts, Less is a delicious treat. Greer paints vivid pictures of bustling markets, serene landscapes, and hidden cultural gems. Each chapter transports you to a new world, immersing you in sights, smells, and sounds with his Pulitzer-worthy, evocative prose. But beyond the postcard-perfect settings, Greer delves deeper, exploring the complex social and political realities of each place.

Readers (especially those interested in place, setting and diasporas) will find an added layer of connection. Arthur’s grappling with his identity as an American, traveller, and writer on the global stage resonates deeply. His encounters with different cultures and communities raise questions about belonging, displacement, and the search for home, both geographically and internally.

But this isn’t just about exotic locales and cultural insights. It’s a testament to the transformative power of travel. As Arthur sheds his “Less” persona and confronts his vulnerabilities across continents, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery. His encounters with diverse people, unexpected twists, and moments of humour and heartbreak force him to reassess his priorities, relationships, and ultimately, his understanding of himself.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller, a curious armchair explorer, or simply someone yearning for a change of scenery, Less offers a captivating journey. Prepare to laugh, cry, reflect, and maybe even fall in love with this loveable but clueless protagonist.

Looking for further reading (and the inspiration behind our book choices)? We also recommend The Last Resort: A Chronicle of Paradise, Profit, and Peril at the Beach by Sarah Stodola.

Bon voyage, Book Club!