World poetry and book days in March “meet up” with plans for a new Virgin Islands poetry book

A unique anthology of poetry is now in the works for the Virgin Islands (Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke).

And according to educator Dr. Pat Turnbull, “What better way to mark World Book Day!” than to meet with the territory’s Minister of Education and Culture, Hon. Myron V. Walwyn to discuss the new book project.

There are at last three international poetry and book days celebrated between March 3 and March 28: World Book Day, World Poetry Day, and Children’s Picture Book Day. “This is a great time to bridge awareness and love of poetry and books in Tortola and in the Caribbean,” said Jacqueline Sample, president of House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).

“Dr. Turnbull and her team of educators and writers are leading the rally from Tortola to encourage Virgin Islands poets, aspiring poets, spoken word artists, and rappers, to submit their poems to be critically reviewed, with the chance to get published in the book,” said Sample.

The planned collection has as its working title “Where I See the Sun – Contemporary Poetry in the Virgin Islands.” As for bridging awareness of Caribbean books, publishing, and poetry among the region’s people, the Virgin Islands collection will be edited by the St. Martin poet Lasana M. Sekou and it will be published here by HNP, said Sample.

With nearly 20 submissions already received, the deadline to email, FB messenger, or mail one’s poems for a chance to get published in the Virgin Islands anthology has been extended to March 31, “So craft your art and submit your poetry on time!” said Dr. Turnbull. The publication guidelines can be found at houseofnehesipublish@gmail.com and Facebook http://on.fb.me/1WpstuD,” said Sample.