Surprising Joy

‘“Mind you don’t” means “make sure you don’t” in England.’

‘And “mind you” means “make sure you do”?’ I said slowly.

She nodded.

‘Not in Jamaica,’ I said. ‘It’s the other way round, there.’ (p.205)

The arrival of this eagerly anticipated first novel by poet Valerie Bloom fulfils expectations. Set in Jamaica and London, the differences in culture, climate and language are experienced through the eyes of first-person narrator, Joy.

After years of waiting Joy’s mum eventually writes to say that she is ready for her daughter to join her in England. Joy loves Jamaica where she lives with her formidable yet loving granny, but moving to England to be with her mother is a long-awaited dream. She quickly discovers that London is not what she expected and there are even more shocking discoveries to be made. In this warm and colourful novel about friendship, family, secrets and belonging Valerie Bloom develops empathy for Joy through to the ultimately satisfying conclusion. Characterisation is convincing, the reader appreciates the adult dilemmas at the same time as feeling Joy’s pain and confusion. The setting is vividly created and the vibrant descriptions of Jamaica are simply mouth-watering. Surprising Joy is a joy.