Island SPACE Hosts Book Launch for ABC’s for the Jamerican Child

Guests gathered at Island SPACE Caribbean Museum on Friday, November 22, 2025, for the interactive and family-friendly launch of ABC’s for the Jamerican Child, a new children’s book by author Djamil Ninsoo. The event celebrated Caribbean culture, childhood imagination, and the beauty of Jamaican heritage.

A Celebration of Storytelling, Culture, and Creativity

The evening began with an engaging live reading of ABC’s for the Jamerican Child, performed by author Djamil Ninsoo. Guests were introduced to young Jahmal’s journey through the alphabet, filled with Jamaican foods, traditions, music, and everyday expressions that brought the island’s rhythm and warmth to life. 

Children and adults alike connected deeply with the book’s joyful representation of Jamaican culture. A special kids’ area featured Jamaican-themed word searches and coloring pages, giving young attendees a fun, hands-on way to connect with the book’s themes.

Following the reading, attendees enjoyed a lively Q&A session with Djamil Ninsoo and the book’s illustrator, India Monae. The pair shared insights into their creative process, the inspiration behind the words and illustrations, and how their own experiences shaped their artistry.

The evening concluded with a book signing, where guests had the opportunity to meet both Djamil Ninsoo and illustrator India Monae. Families left with personalized copies of the book and memorable interactions with the creative team behind this exciting new addition to Caribbean children’s literature.

Author Djamil Ninsoo (also known as “DouglaBwoy” online) has also written the children’s book: Eva, My Nani-Ji, a warm biography of his maternal grandmother, set in Jamaica, that weaves family history with cultural heritage. Beyond his books, he is also active as a cultural advocate: he uses his platform to educate about Jamaican history, identity, and heritage, particularly focusing on Jamaican Muslims of African and Indian ancestry. He works as a lead archivist at Island SPACE Caribbean Museum. 

Illustrator India Monae is the founder of iARTProductions LLC, where she creates children’s books, greeting cards, tote bags, novelty items, and more, all celebrating Black culture and imagination.

Island SPACE’s ongoing commitment to celebrating Caribbean identity and fostering cultural education for all ages and the success of this event highlights the museum’s role as a hub for storytelling, community engagement, and cultural pride.