Edwidge Danticat Knihy

Edwidge Danticat's groundbreaking debut novel, reissued as one of five titles celebrating Abacus's 50th anniversary, with a new introduction by Bernardine Evaristo

The literary journey of Edwidge Danticat unfolds from her childhood in Haiti to her evolution as an award-winning writer. The narrative explores her formative experiences and the influential relationships she forged with other notable writers, highlighting the impact of these connections on her craft. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, the book offers insights into her beginnings, the challenges she faced, and the themes that permeate her work, making it a compelling exploration of her artistic development.

A touching tale of parent-child separation and immigration, from a National Book Award finalist After Saya's mother is sent to an immigration detention center, Saya finds comfort in listening to her mother's warm greeting on their answering machine. To ease the distance between them while she’s in jail, Mama begins sending Saya bedtime stories inspired by Haitian folklore on cassette tape. Moved by her mother's tales and her father's attempts to reunite their family, Saya writes a story of her own—one that just might bring her mother home for good. With stirring illustrations, this tender tale shows the human side of immigration and imprisonment—and shows how every child has the power to make a difference.

The anthology features thirty-three contributors who share poignant narratives across five sections: Childhood, Migration, Half/First Generation, Return, and Future. These personal stories explore the complex experiences of individuals navigating their identities between Haiti and the United States. The contributors reflect on the emotional journey of their dyaspora, likening it to a butterfly's unpredictable flight, highlighting the deep connections and transitions between their homeland and adopted country.

When Haitians tell a story, they say "Krik?" and the eager listeners answer "Krak!" In Krik? Krak! In her second novel, Edwidge Danticat establishes herself as the latest heir to that narrative tradition with nine stories that encompass both the cruelties and the high ideals of Haitian life. They tell of women who continue loving behind prison walls and in the face of unfathomable loss; of a people who resist the brutality of their rulers through the powers of imagination. The result is a collection that outrages, saddens, and transports the reader with its sheer beauty.

Winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award for Autobiography A National Book Award Finalist A New York Times Notable Book From the age of four, award-winning writer Edwidge Danticat came to think of her uncle Joseph as her “second father,” when she was placed in his care after her parents left Haiti for America. And so she was both elated and saddened when, at twelve, she joined her parents and youngest brothers in New York City. As Edwidge made a life in a new country, adjusting to being far away from so many who she loved, she and her family continued to fear for the safety of those still in Haiti as the political situation deteriorated. In 2004, they entered into a terrifying tale of good people caught up in events beyond their control. Brother I'm Dying is an astonishing true-life epic, told on an intimate scale by one of our finest writers.

Focuses on art and exile, examining what it means to be an immigrant artist from a country in crisis. This title tells the stories of artists, including the author, who create despite, or because of, the horrors that drove them from their homelands and that continue to haunt them.

A New York Times Notable Book A Miami Herald Best Book of the Year In this deeply personal book, the celebrated Haitian-American writer Edwidge Danticat reflects on art and exile. Inspired by Albert Camus and adapted from her own lectures for Princeton University’s Toni Morrison Lecture Series, here Danticat tells stories of artists who create despite (or because of) the horrors that drove them from their homelands. Combining memoir and essay, these moving and eloquent pieces examine what it means to be an artist from a country in crisis.

Originally published in hardcover in 2002, this book offers a unique perspective on its subject matter, showcasing the author's distinctive style and insights. The narrative invites readers into a well-crafted world, highlighting themes that resonate with both contemporary and timeless relevance.

Set against the backdrop of a devastating earthquake in Haiti, a young boy named Junior finds himself trapped under the rubble of his home for eight days. As he struggles to survive, he relies on his imagination to provide solace and hope. This poignant tale celebrates resilience and the power of creativity in the face of adversity, serving as a heartfelt tribute to Haiti and children everywhere. The story is complemented by vibrant full-color illustrations that enhance its emotional depth.