Photography is the emphasis of Edison Boodoosingh's book, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO – A Caribbean Expression of Colourful Diversity. The photographer seeks to give a probing pictorial perspective into the natural, social, economical and cultural character of this fascinating Caribbean nation of some 1.3 million people. The book is organised into seven sections: People & Culture, Architecture & Monuments, National Festivals, Eco-systems & Natural Wonders, Commerce & Industry, Sights & Scenes and The Faces of the Races. Whilst the vast array of wonderful photographs is the chief protagonist in the narrative of this book, there is a complementing balance of a well written series of insightful and informative supplemental articles and captions which give a qualified literary dimension. This pictorial reportage gives a 'through-the-lens' view of the modern face of the culture of Trinidad and Tobago. It is a perspective that captures facets of daily life which are based on a remarkable mixture of historical and social elements. These components are principally derived from a rich vein of such sub-cultures including the aboriginal Amerindians, Western Europeans, West Africans, East Indians, Chinese, Middle Easterners and sundry extra regional influences. This unique blend of cultural ingredients is a result of the great demographic redistribution and population infusion of the region which began during the nation's formative years in the modern era, roughly between the 16th and the 19th centuries. Geographically and ecologically, from the seaside, the country plains and into the lush hillside regions, the photographer snaps a broad and enthralling range of the nation's natural habitat. This kaleidoscope of scenic features make up a series of quite varied and expansive biological systems and physical landscapes which form the rich environmental complex of Trinidad and Tobago. The stunning photography across the pages of this volume gives a compelling and discerning visual commentary of this unique Caribbean nation. The wide assortment of images highlights the distinctly intricate cultural network of people and places, along with, characters and customs, mingling in the colourful social ambience of their local habitat. The surrounding backdrop is adorned with elaborate facades of tropical flora and fauna. It is altogether, a beautiful presentation of Trinidad and Tobago.

"Written for students at sixth form and undergraduate levels, and for 'the interested adult reader who might want to get a general feel for the subject', this is a systematic introduction to the rich diversity of Trinidad and Tobago's natural history, illustrated with maps and the author's own field photography. To manage a country's natural heritage effectively, the author argues, its organisms and ecosystems must be understood. Chronicling its degradation is not enough."--Publisher's description.

"We must remember... and we must remember everything." - Gerard BessonThe Book of Trinidad, a perennial favourite with Trinidadians all over the world, is an eclectic mix of travelogues, recipes, newspaper reports, official records, the seminal work of historians and, perhaps more importantly, the oral traditions of the very old whose memories link back to the turn of the century. Fully illustrated with rare pictures from a wide range of sources, The Book of Trinidad has sold thousands of copies since its first publication in 1986.The history of beautiful Trinidad is a relatively short but multi-faceted one in comparison to its neighbouring islands in the Caribbean. The Book of Trinidad travels through centuries of Trinidad's life, exposing an experience in which the changing of seasons was the only constant in an otherwise timeless world.The remarkable thing in the development of Trinidad has been the make-up of its population. Literally, people from all over the world found a home in the island by virtue of their Catholicism or other considerations. Truly antique strains, such as the Rada from West Africa and Maronite Christians from the Ottoman Empire, Brahmins from India, French aristocrats, Corsican revolutionaries, Portuguese converted to Protestanism from Madeira, Chinese peasants, liberated Africans, and Shiite Muslims who have continued to the present to celebrate Muharrum (Hosay) were all poured into the mould of British colonialism and stamped by the prejudices of the time. Writers Bridget Brereton and Gerard Besson bring together the people of Trinidad by commemorating the memory of shared experiences among this plethora of cultures in the development of our beloved country.Brereton and Besson's collaboration in The Book of Trinidad draws together the collective experience of the nation's people to put together the colourful mosaic that is, in truth, our national patrimony.Bridget Brereton was a Professor of History and the Head of the History department at the University of the West Indies' St. Augustine campus. She has served on several occasions as the Principal of the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad.Gerard A. Besson is a publisher, writer and historian. He is the founder of Paria Publishing, a company that has produced around 100 titles in the field of history and folklore. In 2007, he was the recipient of the Hummingbird Medal (Gold) for Heritage Preservation and Promotion.

Like many Caribbean nations, Trinidad has felt the effects of globalization on its economy, politics, and expressive culture. Even Carnival, once a clandestine folk celebration, has been transformed into a major transnational festival. In Trinidad Carnival, Garth L. Green, Philip W. Scher, and an international group of scholars explore Carnival as a reflection of the nation and culture of Trinidad and Trinidadians worldwide. The nine essays cover topics such as women in Carnival, the politics and poetics of Carnival, Carnival and cultural memory, Carnival as a tourist enterprise, the steelband music of Carnival, Calypso music on the world stage, Carnival and rap, and Carnival as a global celebration. For readers interested in the history and current expression of Carnival, this volume offers a multidimensional and transnational view of Carnival as a representation of Trinidad and Caribbean culture everywhere. Contributors are Robin Balliger, Shannon Dudley, Pamela R. Franco, Patricia A. de Freitas, Ray Funk, Garth L. Green, Donald R. Hill, Lyndon Phillip, Victoria Razak, and Philip W. Scher.

The first history of Trinidad and Tobago written at this level. Give students a foundation in the history of Trinidad and Tobago and prepare them for their study of the wider Caribbean and other parts of the world.

Discover Trinidad and Tobago like never before in this comprehensive book that offers you an in-depth journey through the history, culture, nature and society of this fascinating Caribbean nation. From its prehistoric origins to the modern republic, this book illuminates every aspect of life on the islands, without using images, but solely through attractively written text. Learn about the rich cultural diversity, traditional festivals and culinary delights, the music scene with calypso and soca, as well as the important historical sites and cities such as Port of Spain and San Fernando. Immerse yourself in the unique underwater world with diving and snorkeling, explore the national parks and protected areas and experience the natural beauty of flora and fauna. This book not only provides you with extensive knowledge about Trinidad and Tobago, but also inspires you to visit the islands yourself and discover their treasures. Ideal for anyone interested in history, culture, nature and travel. Get your copy now and be enchanted by the diversity and beauty of this Caribbean gem.