I’ve recently listened to an audiobook about the Windrush scandal. It’s a heartbreaking account of a despicable attempt in very recent months by the British Government to remove hundreds of individuals who came to the UK in the 1950s and 60s. They arrived as children but fir numerous reasons didn’t have what the Home Office deemed the ‘right’ documentation to prove their status as UK citizens. They’ve worked here for over 40 years, paid taxes, contributed to the economy and suddenly faced arrest and deportation and critical medical care was withheld.

Island Songs is a real complement to the Windrush story, adding much by way of rich detail to the way of life in Jamaica and giving the whole story a completely different perspective. The narration and idiomatic language is excellent and takes the listener to the heart of the families and their way of life. I was transported to a very different time; although poor financially there’s a real warmth and richness of love and a desire to find a better way..

I found the story totally engrossing. I loved the language, the people and my heart went out to them. Leaving sunshine, colour, warmth and close family to arrive in a grey, cold, racist postwar Britain is just unimaginable. Their hope and bravery knew no bounds and this is a story I’ll listen to again.

My thanks to the publisher for a review copy via Netgalley.

An engaging family story expertly narrated by Sara Powell, charting the complexities of family dynamics and relationships.

Two sisters, from Claremont, Jamaica, emigrate to the 'Motherland' they had been taught about at school. The England they find is not so much a land of opportunity, as one of discrimination.

Island Songs is rich in the social and natural history of Jamaica from the middle of the twentieth century to the present day. At times, this exposition outweighs the plot.

The audiobook, narrated by Sarah Powell, gives a flavour of the voices of Jamaica.