Famous Jamaican Writers

Claude McKay was a Jamaican-American writer and poet who played a central role in the Harlem Renaissance. He wrote influential works such as "If We Must Die" in response to racial violence, and published several novels, including the award-winning "Home to Harlem." McKay also authored collections of poetry, short stories, and essays on social and political issues. He was involved in socialist and communist movements, but later became critical of the Soviet regime. McKay's professional life was marked by literary achievements and ideological conflicts within leftist circles.

Linton Kwesi Johnson is a renowned dub poet and activist, known for his contributions to the literary world. He made history in 2002 by becoming the second living poet, and the only black one, to be published in the prestigious Penguin Modern Classics series. Johnson's performance poetry is characterized by recitations of his own verses in Jamaican patois set to dub-reggae music. He often collaborates with reggae producer/artist Dennis Bovell, combining their talents to create powerful and thought-provoking pieces that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Louise Bennett-Coverley, also known as Miss Lou, was a Jamaican poet, folklorist, writer, and educator who played a crucial role in preserving Jamaican Patois or Creole through her poetry and performances. By presenting poems, folk songs, and stories in patois, she promoted the use of local languages for literary expression and emphasized the cultural significance of Jamaican traditions. Through her work, Bennett-Coverley established the validity and importance of nation language, contributing significantly to the recognition of local dialects in literature.

Marlon James is a Jamaican writer known for his five novels, including the award-winning "A Brief History of Seven Killings." He currently resides in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he teaches literature at Macalester College. Additionally, he serves as a faculty lecturer at St. Francis College's Low Residency MFA in Creative Writing program. James's work has garnered critical acclaim and has solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in contemporary literature, particularly known for his vivid storytelling and unique narrative style.

Bilal Philips is a prominent Islamic teacher, author, and speaker known for founding the International Open University. With over 50 books to his name, he has contributed significantly to Islamic literature through writing, translating, and commentary. Philips has made appearances on various TV channels, discussing Islamic topics. However, his career has been marked by controversy, leading to bans from several countries and being named as an unindicted co-conspirator in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing by the US government.

Trevor Rhone was a prolific Jamaican writer, playwright, and filmmaker known for his collaborations with director Perry Henzell. Together, they achieved international success with their film "The Harder They Come" in 1972. Rhone's creative talents extended beyond film as he penned numerous plays and scripts that resonated with audiences. His work showcased his deep understanding of Jamaican culture and society, earning him recognition as a significant figure in the Caribbean arts scene. Rhone's contributions to the world of entertainment continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

Andrew Salkey was a Jamaican novelist, poet, children's book writer, and journalist of Jamaican and Panamanian origin. He moved to Britain in 1952 to pursue a career in the literary world, working as a teacher and a nightclub doorman. Salkey later became a broadcaster for the BBC World Service, Caribbean section. He was a prolific writer and editor, authoring over 30 books including novels, poetry collections, travelogues, and essays. In the 1960s, he co-founded the Caribbean Artists Movement. Salkey held a lifetime position as a writer-in-residence at Hampshire College until his passing.

Mary Anne Barker, also known as Lady Broome, was an accomplished English author who focused her writings on life in New Zealand. She established herself as a notable figure in the literary world through her insightful and captivating works. Her writing style was distinguished by its vivid descriptions and keen observations of the New Zealand landscape and people. Mary Anne Barker's contributions to literature provided readers with a unique perspective on the culture and society of New Zealand during her time.

Victor Stafford Reid was a Jamaican writer who aimed to influence younger generations to embrace local history. He was recognized for his contributions with prestigious awards such as the silver and gold Musgrave Medals, the Order of Jamaica, and the Norman Manley Award for Excellence in Literature. Reid authored several novels, including works targeted at children, a play production, and numerous short stories. His writing focused on instilling an awareness of legacy and tradition among Jamaican people, reflecting social and cultural hardships while advocating for resistance and struggle.

John Figueroa was a prominent Jamaican poet and educator known for his contributions to Anglophone Caribbean literature. He played a key role in the development of the University College of the West Indies as a founding staff member. In addition to his work as a poet and anthologist, Figueroa had a successful career as a broadcaster, including stints at the BBC. He taught in various countries, including Jamaica, Britain, the United States, Nigeria, and Puerto Rico, showcasing his dedication to education and literary development.

Nalo Hopkinson is a prominent Jamaican-born Canadian speculative fiction writer and editor known for her novels like Brown Girl in the Ring and The Salt Roads, which draw on Caribbean history and language. She has edited fiction anthologies, defended novels on national radio, and curated fantastical fiction series for CBC Radio One. In 2020, she was honored as the 37th Damon Knight Grand Master for her significant contributions to science fiction and fantasy. Currently residing in Vancouver, she continues to teach and inspire through her work in the genre.

Carlton Lindsay Barrett is a prolific Jamaican-born writer, encompassing various roles such as poet, novelist, essayist, playwright, journalist, and photographer. His career has spanned continents, with notable interactions with the Caribbean Artists Movement, the Black Arts Movement, and pan-Africanism. Barrett's debut novel, "Song for Mumu," garnered critical acclaim and is considered a classic in Jamaican literature. His work often delves into themes of black identity, African Diaspora, and the survival of black descendants worldwide. Barrett's professional life has been marked by a commitment to cultural ventures in the UK, US, and Nigeria.