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‘Explore Antigua & Barbuda’ is brimming with eye-catching illustrations

From Amerindians to Carnival. This new book invites you to explore Antigua & Barbuda’s rich history and culture.

Ever wondered about the very first people to call Antigua & Barbuda home? Fascinated by the islands’ rich naval history, the slavery era of its past, and the national heroes that helped shape its future?

A first of its kind, fully illustrated book invites you on a journey through these captivating twin isles in a colourful, easy to read format suitable for both children and adults.

‘Explore Antigua & Barbuda’ is co-authored by Antigua-based journalist Gemma Handy and Canadian teacher Irene Danics. The A4 size, hardback publication, brimming with vibrant drawings, details life here throughout the millennia from the Amerindians to the original European settlers, and through the harsh days of slavery to the crusade for independence.

Co-author Gemma Handy with the new guidebook

Cricketing legends, the thrill of modern-day sailing, the intoxicating spirit of Carnival and the music, wildlife, food and language which characterise this proud nation are all to be found within its 80 pages.

There is also an enchanting 50-page colouring book counterpart which aims to teach children about this fascinating country through an engaging activity.
“The books are the result of two years of research, wading through often conflicting information, pestering historians and museum staff, and chatting to everyday people to gain a deeper insight into the unique culture of this beautiful country, my home for the last six years and to which I have been an enamoured visitor for many more,” Gemma said.

“The guide is dedicated to my mother, Jan Edwards, an Antiguan citizen who died in June 2016, and whose profound love and respect for these islands she firmly instilled in me,” she added.

Co-author Irene Danics

Co-author Irene is the creator of the inaugural book in the ‘Explore’ series, ‘Explore Turks & Caicos’, where she lived and worked as a teacher for 13 years.
“I love books, and I love to travel and explore new places. Soon after the TCI book became a big success with both tourists and locals, we realised it could be created for other islands too,” Irene explained. She said she fell in love with Antigua & Barbuda on her first visit several years ago.

“I loved how authentically Caribbean it felt, seeing colourful fruit stalls and chattel houses along the winding roads. I loved the mountainous topography and lush vegetation, the warm hospitality, the genuine smiles radiating positive energy,” Irene continued. “After countless hours of research, many late nights, a number of setbacks and delays, Gemma and I succeeded in producing these eye-catching books that attempt to cover everything you ever wanted to know about the islands at a glance,” Irene said.

The beguiling illustrations in both the guide and colouring book are the work of acclaimed artist Manuel Morgado.

“I am very excited to finally be able to share our creation,” Irene said. “Our guide is not meant to be fully comprehensive, but rather spark an interest and inspire the reader to explore the many topics covered and hopefully discover something new,” she added. “That’s why the name of our series is ‘Explore’, because we believe we should never cease to explore the world around us; it has so much to offer and it’s in our human nature to learn and grow every day.”

Visit www.islandbooks.tc, email gemma@gemmahandy.com, or for more information call (268) 784-5151.