"Far out, to the horizon, the colour of the water is navy-blue; nearer, the water is the colour of the North American sky . . . the water is pale, silvery, clear, so clear . . ." Kincaid, A Small Place

This tropical heaven of the Carribean island Antigua serves as a physical and symbolic backdrop for the "paradise turned hell." Annie John by Jamaica Kincaid. is not a book which will appeal to younger reader's. They will not be able to sort through the layers, and see through the simplicity of the text. An advanced reader will appreciate this rich and deep novel, accented by the element of subtlety imposed by Kincaid.

The novel unfolds as Annie comes to the realization that she and her mother are growing apart. The crumbling relationship unfolds in eight distinctive episodes, leading to Annie's departure from Antigua. In its distinct setting, and accurate portrayal of the tribulations of adolescence, Annie John is a novel all women will enjoy.

Kincaid grew up on the Island of Antigua, and left as Annie did when she was sixteen. A novel claimed by critics to be autobiographical is parti

The picture of Antigua adds character to Kincaid's novel. Her descriptions and back flashes to experiences on the island create color in the book. The honesty and bluntness Kincaid uses to explain the beautiful and strange aspects of the culture carries over into the character of Annie ( again the layering of concepts). Kincaid is straightforward when presenting Annie. Whether speaking of her obsession with death, the betrayal of Annie to her best friend Gwen, or her hatred towards her mother, Kincaid is always blunt and honest in her portrayal. She captivates her audience by her accurate and candid portrait of adolescence.

Overlapping elements, such as details used to explain a bigger meaning, are a prominent and effective device used by Kincaid. The entire book is set up in mini episodes, and a single experience may be thoroughly described for several pages. For example, every physical aspect is used to explain the rebellious and intense nature of a character coined "The Red Girl." Kincaid describes her hair, her "big red moon" face, her shabby clothes, and bad hygiene. These meticulous points are what displays the girls nature and

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Approximate Word count = 774
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)