This is a story about five fascinating, multicultural women who couldn’t be more different from each other, yet they found common ground in love for each other and their fight for justice.
Set against the backdrop of historical references to Carnival across the Caribbean, this dark and humorous West Indian tale of love and adventure will make you laugh out loud and tug at your heartstrings at the same time.
Yuh Can't Stop De Carnival
5.0 out of 5 stars A first novel that’s a delightful, well written and captivating soak in the warm Caribbean Sun. – H.J.P.
“I thoroughly enjoyed this gem of a book. It’s well written, the characters delightfully genuine, and the flavor of the islands is imbedded in every page. The author captures and conveys the essence of island living through the experiences of Maya and Robert, a married couple and their family and friends, as they open a new business, the Spice Jar, on the island of Castara, West Indies. While Castara is a composite of several Caribbean islands, it rings true in every way. As a former resident of the Caribbean for thirty years, I felt comfortably back in my island home as I read it. It is honest and written from the heart, taking you through moments of joy, sadness, fear and moral indignation as you’re guided through island time and culture. It’s a captivating story of actualized dreams, the warmth of friends united in support, and the moments of frustration, fear, joy and outright laughter encountered in making those dreams a reality. The author’s use of dialect in conversations works well in bringing the aura of the Caribbean to the pages. I loved my time with Maya, Robert and their friends, and hope to spend more time with them in future adventures. The descriptions of the origins of carnival in various islands throughout the West Indies is an historic bonus and, I suspect readers who have never ventured to that warm climate and waters, will be buying sunscreen as they plan their next trip.”
5.0 out of 5 stars Well written, nostalgic and a Fun read! – Kindle Customer
“Being a Caribbean woman, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel. It brought back so much fun memories of my childhood and young adult life- the picong, the laughter, the country life, the gossiping and minding other people’s business otherwise known as ‘maco-ing.’ It really was a page turner for me with occasional outbursts of laughter. Great book written by a beautiful soul. Well done Vidya!”
5.0 out of 5 stars A brilliant debut novel! – P.H.
I loved this book! It captures the sights, sounds and taste of Caribbean culture! Maya & Robert, her family and friends brought life at the Spice Jar Cafe to my favorite chair with riotous color and detail. I especially liked all the history of Carnival and it’s importance to the culture of these Caribbean islands. Kudos to Vidya Birkhoff’s storytelling and amazing artwork on the cover.
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautifully illustrates Caribbean Life & Experiences – T.B.
Excellent read that incorporates the good bad and ugly of Caribbean life. I feel like a citizen of Castara. You’ll immerse yourself in this beautiful story.
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent read with something familiar for every Caribbean reader – T.J.
The author's style of writing is easy and engaging, so much so that I read the book twice and enjoyed it equally both times! The range of social issues, with accompanying cultural cues and perspectives, made the overall story extremely relatable as the author touched on so many poignant things. And the glossary at the end was a great touch for readers. For the Caribbean reader and those who have visited the region, there's definitely something for everyone to identify with. A bonafide must read! I can't wait to see more artwork and writing from this author.
5.0 out of 5 stars A trip into the midst of Caribbean life, without the cost of a ticket! Loved it!
I was fortunate enough to live in the Caribbean for a few years, and “Yuh Can’t Stop De Carnival” is a hilarious yet enlightening trip into everyday life in the world where you learn to expect the unexpected- both the good and bad! Trade a ride for some mangoes? Absolutely!! Throw everyone around in the car to avoid harming a goat? Damn straight! Expect everything to happen as planned? Never…. which is what makes this world so special. This book “took me home” for a little while. You will love it!
