LOOKING BACK.........

The Struggle To Preserve Our Freedoms

By: Joan Williams

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

In this riveting autobiography, former journalist/author, Joan Williams shares numerous dangerous and transfixing experiences that occurred during her participation in the “undeclared” civil war which wreaked havoc in her country, Jamaica, between 1977-1980. This conflict resulted from the determination of most of the island’s citizens, to prevent socialism/communism from taking over their country during the cold war era. During that period, the island was "invaded" by operatives from the Russian KGB, Cuban DGI, and American CIA, all assisting the side they favored and arming the combatants. Chronicling her own political activism and fight during that period, Williams, then a young mother, adopted a slogan from the late civil rights activist Martin Luther King that “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter,” as her mantra. This caused her to make heart-wrenching sacrifices to keep her small island out of the clutches of the communists. The most devastating sacrifice she said she had to make, was having to send her children away out of harm’s way. With the current alarming developments in Venezuela which include shortages of basic goods, government-sanctioned violence, threats to press freedom and the liberty, continuously being on the front pages, "Looking Back" is especially relevant as many of the political happenings there mirror what is outlined as having occurred in Jamaica during their cold war era. This book will also provide a guide to Americans who are not aware of what “socialism” really is about. However, reflecting on where her country is today, Williams at times questioned whether the efforts they made and the dangers they withstood to keep the communists at bay, were worth the effort? Then, in 2014, she took her fourth trip to Cuba, this time it was to meet family which she had recently discovered lived there. Seeing the depressing conditions, lack of hope etc. which she found there, she answers her own question with a definitive “YES.” In the heart-wrenching chapter entitled TO HELL AND BACK, Williams takes readers on the emotional roller coaster she tumbled helplessly on for years, when her 24-year-old son was murdered. She poignantly described how she reeled through numerous stages of grief, helplessness, agitation, inexplicable exhaustion disrupted by bouts of sobbing and the total desire to withdraw from the world. Losing a child, she concludes, is the worst tragedy that could ever befall a parent. For, while we expect the old to die, when our children go before us, that in itself disturbs the natural order and there are no short-term roads to recovery. She agrees with American author and mother of the late President John F. Kennedy, Rose Kennedy who wrote; “It has been said that time heals all wounds. I don't agree. The wounds remain. Time-the mind covers them with some scar tissue and the pain lessens, but it is never gone.” Williams, says she was only able to start the journey to normalcy, on accepting Hellen Keller’s advice that; “Your success and happiness lies in you. Resolve to keep happy, and your joy and you shall form an invincible host against difficulties.” Looking back at her own “cold case,” her son’s murder, which the local police had shown no interest in solving at the time, Williams weighs the evidence and now arrives at a most startling conclusion about who really assassinated her only son! Moving to the lighter side, Williams explains how she got involved in journalism, rising to become a popular radio talk show host. She also shares with readers the influence various members of her family had on her, experiences with racism both at home and abroad and in a short hilarious chapter, tells readers about her experiments with ganja (marijuana) with which the name Jamaica has always been closely associated. “Looking Back” is almost impossible to put down and is indeed a must read.

Looking Back: A riveting account of Jamaica’s turbulent years (1970 to 1994)

Joan Williams's "Looking Back" offers a compelling narrative of Jamaica's political upheavals during the crucial years between 1970 and 1994. For readers like yourself, who may have left Jamaica during this period, this book serves as an invaluable window into the tumultuous events that unfolded under the leadership of Michael Manley and Edward Seaga.

Williams provides a ringside view of Jamaica's political landscape, delving deep into the ideological clashes, social unrest, and economic challenges that gripped the nation. Through meticulous research and firsthand accounts, she paints a vivid picture of the power struggles between the People's National Party (PNP) under Manley and the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) led by Seaga.

What sets "Looking Back" apart is its ability to offer nuanced insights into the complexities of Jamaican politics. Williams doesn't shy away from addressing the controversies, violence, and human toll that marked this period. Yet, amidst the chaos, she also highlights moments of resilience, community spirit, and the enduring quest for social justice.

One of the book's strengths lies in its balanced portrayal of key political figures. Rather than resorting to simplistic caricatures, Williams presents Manley and Seaga as multifaceted individuals with distinct visions for Jamaica's future. By exploring their policies, personalities, and legacies, she enables readers to grasp the motivations driving these leaders and the impact of their decisions on the country's trajectory.

Moreover, "Looking Back" offers valuable lessons for understanding contemporary Jamaican society and politics. Williams skillfully connects past events to present-day realities, illuminating the roots of ongoing social issues and the enduring legacy of this pivotal era.

In conclusion, "Looking Back" is a must-read for anyone interested in Jamaican history, politics, or society. Joan Williams's engaging prose, thorough research, and insightful analysis make this book a captivating journey through Jamaica's turbulent past. Whether you're a newcomer to Jamaican history or a seasoned observer, "Looking Back" offers fresh perspectives and profound revelations that will leave a lasting impression.p