At Our Caribbean Story, we believe that history and community go hand in hand. This page features books, tours, and experiences that we trust — resources that help you go deeper into the history we share and support the communities that keep it alive.
Books
These are the books that have shaped our understanding of St. Lucian and Caribbean history.
A History of St Lucia
By Jolien Harmsen, Guy Ellis, Robert Devaux
The most comprehensive book on St. Lucian history, covering everything from the first inhabitants to independence. Essential reading.
They Called Us Brigands
By Robert Devaux
The definitive account of St. Lucia’s freedom fighters — the Brigands who fought for liberation in the 1790s. Written by a Saint Lucian historian.
Jean Baptiste Bideau:A Life for Freedom
By N.G. Jean Marie
Jean Baptiste Bideau was a sailor from Saint Lucia who became a key naval commander in the Venezuelan War of Independence. He is most famous for saving the life of Simón Bolívar in 1816 when the revolutionary leader was stranded and about to be captured.
The Philosophy and Opinions of Marcus Garvey
by Marcus Garvey
The foundational text of Garveyism — Black pride, self-reliance, and the call for African redemption. Essential for understanding the Rastafari movement and the music it inspired.
Flore Bois Gaillard: The Flame of Liberation in Saint Lucia
Flore Bois Gaillard was an enslaved woman in Saint Lucia. Raped and beaten by her master, she escaped into the forests in 1793—and became a revolutionary.
She rose to become a military leader of the Brigands, a coalition of Maroons and freed slaves. She helped plan the ambush at Rabot that killed two hundred British soldiers and drove the empire from the island. She ushered in L’Année de la Liberté—The Year of Liberty.
How Europe Underdeveloped Africa
by Walter Rodney
A powerful analysis of how colonialism shaped the modern world — and how Africa was systematically underdeveloped. A must-read for understanding the roots of global inequality.
Tours & Experiences
These tours support local communities and share the authentic stories of St. Lucia’s people and places.
Community Tourism Agency
- Phone: +1 (758) 572-0320
- Email: info@ctasaintlucia.org
- Office Address: Coral Avenue, Edgewater, 1st Floor Accela Building, Gros Islet, Saint Lucia
Desruisseaux Heritage Walk
Desruisseaux, Micoud
Walk through the birthplace of Jean Baptiste Bideau. This community-led experience takes you through the village that shaped a hero. Support local guides and learn the story on the ground.
Fond d’Or Nature & Historical Park
Dennery
A 300-acre park with ruins, petroglyphs, and a chance to walk the same trails the Igneri and Kalinago once walked. One of St. Lucia’s most important historical sites.
Art & Heritage Tours
Nationwide
A network of cultural tours across St. Lucia, including Howelton Estate, Choiseul Arts & Crafts Centre, and more. Authentic experiences led by local people.
Choiseul Community Tourism
Choiseul
A model of community tourism — artisan studios, training areas, and exhibition space run by and for local people. A blueprint for what tourism can look like when communities lead.
Cultural Products
Sweetgrass Baskets
Choiseul & Soufrière
Handwoven by local artisans, continuing a tradition with roots in West Africa. Each basket is a piece of living history.
Cocoa Products
Montuzuma Family Estate, Micoud
Farm-to-table cocoa from a Saint Lucian family estate working to revitalize the industry. A taste of the island’s agricultural heritage.
Kwéyòl Books & Music
Folk Research Centre, Castries
Books, music, and resources that keep the Kwéyòl language and culture alive. Support the work of preserving our language.