Ginga' Root Tea An American Journey

by Naomi Pringle

A story of Jamaican immigrants as their lives change in America. Isabel Hanson grew up a country girl, where her mou-ma prescribed ginga' for all ailments requiring soothing. But when she met Walter Buckley, a wealthy landowner, her world changes to one of privilege.

Her world is torn apart when her husband leaves for America to start a new life for the family. Lonely and despaired without him, Isabel follows. Soon after, Lilly, the oldest and favored daughter of Isabel's because of her fair complexion (like Isabel's mother's), is brought over. Finally, "the girls" (their skin was as dark as their grandfather's) were included. Life was never to be the same.

This book was written by a former broadcast journalist who now lives in Southwest FL.

275 pages, Paperback

First published January 31, 2009

Reviews

[Gwyn]

A fascinating story about a Jamaican family who search fo a better life in America. It is heart rendering and so unique in the story telling. A good page turner.

[Leah Griffith]

Ginga’ Root Tea was a delightful read, following the migration of a family, around the turn of the century, from Jamaica to New York City. I found Ms. Pringle’s descriptions vivid, yet tender, finding the heart of the reader. Generational conflicts arise as each family member finds their own unique way of letting go of the past and reaching for something more.

Some of the decisions a family is forced to make in order to move forward can have far reaching consequences—such was the truth in Ginga’ Root Tea. I became quite invested in the outcome of the characters and look forward to the sequel. A wonderful novel!