Haiti Noir 2

Funny, I just finished reading Haiti Noir 2 today, and Kreyolicious has a short review up! This collection was not as interesting as the first, but I thoroughly enjoyed reading translated works by some of the best in Haitian literature, such as Jacques Roumain and Ida Faubert. In addition, the reader is treated to a short story by Roxane Gay that has me dying to read her recently published novel. Perhaps due to the inclusion of writers from various epochs in Haitian history, one feels that the great diversity of 20th century and 21st century Haitian history is represented here, including political allusions (the Duvalier dictatorship and Aristide), recent troubles (the rise of kidnappings, sex tourism and gang violence), and class dynamics of Haitian society over time. Overall, my favorite selections were by the following writers: Jacques-Stephen Alexis, Jan J. Dominique, Ida Faubert, Roxane Gay, Dany Laferriere, and Roxane Gay. Check here for my brief thoughts on the first installment of Haiti Noir.