Rich and lyrical, while at the same time tyrannical and heart-wrenching. Renowned poet Safiya Sinclair’s memoir “How to Say Babylon” isn’t an easy read, however it’s worth the dive into its depths.
Sinclair intertwines stories of the Jamaica tourists don’t see with the strictness and misogyny of the Rasta she experienced, while telling her own story of supplication, followed by rebellion. It’s the story of someone who goes against what she knows by using what she has, to build the life that she wants while always, always staying true to what she is.
Sinclair’s memory of finding the words and her voice, which leads to her sisters and mother finding their own voices, is poignant and inspiring, while also asking you to take a look at what you think you know about rastafarianism. Rasta is not Reggae. Reggae is not Rasta, and there’s a whole generation – culture, even – that still yearns for their own freedom outside of the oppression of their own, and the Foreign, and most importantly, Babylon.
Stunning and gracious in its honesty, “How to Say Babylon” is a unique triumph.
352 pages
Published by Simon & Schuster, 37 Ink
Characters 5
Story 5
World-Building 5
Spice N/A
Diversity 5
Total Stars 5
Would I buy this book for myself or a friend? Yes
Will I recommend this book to readers? Yes
