Published by Chakra Publishing House, edited by Kumar Mahabir and illustrated by Aneesa Khan, Indian Caribbean Folklore Spirits (2010) “provides details of the presence of a brood of spirits believed to roam the Caribbean since the abolition of slavery.” Indian Caribbean Folklore Spirits gathers five stories focusing on five types of supernatural beings associated with East Indian traditions: the raa-khas, a deformed, demonic, newborn child; the chu-rile, a spirit of a deceased pregnant woman; the saap-in, a woman who transforms into a snake; Dee Baba, mythical protector of the house and land, and the jinn Sheik Sadiq, a spirit that can be captured in a bottle to grant wishes.

Written for readers of all ages, the stories are beautifully illustrated. In the review “Folklore Alive in the Caribbean,” Vashti Bowlah calls the book “a pioneering work” because it is the first to present a glimpse into the East Indian spiritual pantheon. With a well-structured, clear, and easy format, the text provides descriptions and traits of each folklore spirit, supported by personal testimonies. Bowlah commends Mahabir for his efforts in preserving these important aspects of East Indian culture.

For full review, see http://guardian.co.tt/features/life/2010/06/28/folklore-alive-caribbean

For more information, you may (868) 674-6008 or write to dmahabir@gmail.com or kumarmahab@hotmail.com, or call dmahabir@gmail.com, kumarmahab@hotmail.com

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