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Author
Beresford McLean brings a new novel to his fans
this one delves into a time when British culture dominates over those within Jamaica. Providence Pond’s 500 pages are divided into four parts; each involves four generations of the King family between 1880-1920. The book closes with an afterword that provides insight into some of the issues in Jamaica over the years. Readers may want to read this section first
as it will definitely enrich the experience.

A mysterious Wiseman suddenly appears to a small group of seven individuals from Providence Pond just when matters were about to get out of hand. Asa
an aged shaman-like character
intends to begin a new branch of his “Family” within their community
and this scares some folks who are intimidated by the persecuting officials. But Asa leaves and does not return until much
much later – bringing Congo King and Miss Hene along with him. There are numerous characters in Beresford’s novel but Congo
the co-leader of the new branch of Asa’s Family
is the leading role.

When I began this project
I was under the mistaken impression that it would be about a cultural clash between two peoples. Instead
the story seems to be more about a small group of people in a rural area who have children and the children have children – the readers witnessing all the drama from adultery
romance
jealousy and greed.

Anticipation of a mistaken impression could have lead to my disappointment with some sections of the book. But the transformation of Detective Graham was something I wouldn’t have wanted to miss and I am glad that I read the book through to the end. I was certainly intrigued by the beliefs
culture and drumming – perhaps due to our home-based business
Drum-it Percussion. Sadly
the story did not delve deeply into these subjects. However
the brief glimpses were certainly bright points for me.

Providence Pond is Mr. McLean’s second novel – the first being Broken Gourds – and is currently working on a third book. He is a generous man
deeply involved in numerous charities. Beresford actually emigrated from Jamaica to the United States roughly 36 years ago
and so writing about his homeland obviously slips easily into his novels.

This book would certainly appeal to readers who enjoy rural romance.

Publisher: Anancy Books
ISBN: 0-9753297-1-5