With Black Friday behind us, the 2016 holiday shopping season has officially started, which means we’re actively looking for Caribbean-inspired gifts for our stockings.
One that caught our eye: This charming children’s book, “Kemarley of Anguilla.” Written by actress and frequent AXA visitor Annie Potts (you may remember her from the TV series Designing Women or the original “Ghostbusters” movie), it’s the story of a day in the life of an island boy.
Based on a chance encounter Potts had with the real Kemarley, a child with special needs who she met on the beach, the story is complemented by Potts’ colorful drawings of the people, places and animals he encounters along the way. It’s a simple and sweet story, conveying a message of hope, tolerance and caring that parents will certainly appreciate, and that little ones up to age 8 will enjoy.
Best of all: Potts’ is donating all profits from the sale of the book to the Arijah Children’s Foundation, an island-based charity that benefits Anguilla’s children with special needs. Originally published two years ago, “Kemarley of Anguilla” is a timeless tale with enduring appeal, and, through its charity tie-in, has the power to make a meaningful difference in the lives of deserving but underserved Caribbean children. Get your copy at better gift shops on island, or online.
— Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, CJ Travel Editor
