Carnival Curves
by Stacey Robinson
In a swirl of feathers, sequins, and self-discovery at Toronto’s Caribbean Carnival, Karla and Nneka embrace the power of cultural tradition, the importance of self-love, and what it truly means to celebrate who you are.
In this joyful and thought-provoking YA novel about self-acceptance, friendship, and the power of cultural tradition, two teens experience their first Toronto Caribbean Carnival in their last summer of high school.
As the two best friends, one from a conservative Nigerian family and the other a Jamaican-Canadian, prepare costumes to dance in the Carnival parade, they confront questions of body image, relationships with young men, and the transition to the world beyond high school.
But through the shimmer of sequins and the pulse of music, they also uncover the deeper roots of Carnival, and its ties to emancipation, resistance, and pride. As the girls take their place in the parade, they realize it isn’t just a celebration—it’s a journey of self-discovery.
Caribbean Curves is a vibrant addition to YA shelves, offering an authentic and affirming story of identity, empowerment, and cultural heritage that will resonate with teens.
About the Author
STACEY MARIE ROBINSON is an editor and music enthusiast with a background in communications. Guided by her Jamaican heritage, her creative content showcases contemporary Black Canadian life and Caribbean culture across the diaspora. She has produced several literary events and workshops for writers, and has supported various cultural arts organizations across Toronto. She is the author of Dancehall Rebel. Stacey lives in Scarborough, Ontario.
