Books Like...
Zora Neale Hurston's 'Tell My Horse' is a detailed exploration of voodoo practices in Haiti and Jamaica. The book provides rich descriptions of voodoo ceremonies, including aspects of animal sacrifice and folklore. Hurston's writing style is described as vivid and engaging, with a focus on participant observation and detailed cultural insights.
If you liked Tell My Horse: Voodoo and Life in Haiti and Jamaica, here are the top 3 books to read next:
'Divine Horsemen: The Living Gods of Haiti' by Maya Deren is a book that delves into the exploration of the Haitian vodou tradition. Deren immerses herself in the religion, providing a narrative that is brilliantly written and avoids sensationalism. The book offers insights into the beliefs and traditions of Haitian Vodou, with a focus on the ceremonies, dances, and experiences within the religion. Deren's writing style is poetic and evocative, providing a unique perspective on Haitian culture and Voodoo culture.
The novel "Voodoo Dreams: A Novel of Marie Laveau" by Jewell Parker Rhodes delves into the dark and mysterious life of Marie Laveau, an infamous New Orleans voodooienne. Set in the 1800s, the book portrays the brutality of slavery and the oppression in Louisiana, intertwined with the mysticism of voodoo rituals. The story revolves around Marie Laveau, a powerful Voodoo priestess, and her journey to uncover her past, navigate her destiny, and battle the forces of evil, particularly the manipulative John. The author's writing style captures the essence of old New Orleans, blending elements of voodoo, Christianity, faith, and hope against a historical backdrop, making the characters and settings come alive for the readers.
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'The Serpent and the Rainbow' by Wade Davis is an exploration of Haitian Vodou, zombies, and magic through the eyes of an anthropologist. Davis delves into the origins of zombies in Haiti, investigating the mysterious zombie drug and the cultural practices surrounding it. The narrative combines elements of adventure, anthropology, and personal reflection, shedding light on the complex relationship between society, folklore, and the supernatural.
MY FIRST MEETING with the man who would send me on my quest for the Haitian zombi poison occurred on a damp miserable winter’s day in late February 1974. I was sitting with my roommate David in a café...