Reviews

            IN his foreword to Timothy Callender’s latest publication, Dean Harold Crichlow states that the author’s aim is to create literature that can stand up to any critical academic analysis and at the same time be read and understood by the children of their own Barbadian environment. Those who have inwardly digested, Independence and Freedom designed to celebrate our 21years of freedom, will readily agree that Callender has attained the goal he set for himself.

            The first part of the book deals with Grandfather Willie and his ‘experience’ with Adolf Hitler and is related with ironic humour/ It confirms Mr. Callender’s reputation as the best short story Barbados produced by Barbados in many years. In the second part, he expounds the essence of his philosophy. And the third is a chral drama which explains the idea of independence and offers firm opposition t the panaceas of Leftists and Rightists.

Mr. Callender shows undoubted courage in freely expressing his ideas. He emphasizes that in the case of Barbados we must examine without rancour or bitterness, the elements of culture that have been bequeathed to us by Africa and Britain, and what we have made of that legacy and the existing reality.

Clearly Mr. Callender deserves the greatest support in the bold venture that he has taken.

(See full article/review in Appendix, page 62.)

- Review by
Barbados Advocate
November. 1987

The Story of Grandfather Willie and Mr. Hitler, reminds the reader of the takes of O. Henry, the turn of the century American master of the short story. It is artistically told, displays a kind of grim humour, and romanticizes the commonplace.

Easily the best exponent of the art of short story writing Barbados has ever had, Mr. Callender is particularly a master of the use of the vernacular. He uses it as one should apply seasoning to flying fish – discretely to bring out the taste, and not inordinately to spoil the enjoyment of the dinner.

As Dean Harold Crichlow says in his foreword: Independence and Freedom ad difficult concepts to define. Timothy Callender has endeavoured through his own creative methods, to record what personal, social and national Independence and Freedom mean to him, and he wants to see “ if you and I agree.”

It will pay you high dividends to buy this book to help you make your decision.

-Review by
Topic for Today, E.L.C.
November, 1987

 

Accolade to Timothy Callender on quite the most appropriate item toward celebrating out 21st anniversary of Independence so far. His Independence and Freedom is required by all Barbadians interested  in their country.

-Review by
The Nation, Barbados newspaper
November, 1987