This novel intertwines the histories of several generations of Jamaican women, their pain and joys, along with folklore, magic and (brutal) history. Ida hears the voices of the dead and understands the stories that are told by the animals and plants. Claudia is searching for the mother she never knew. Gracie's mother leaves to work in the US and doesn't send for her. Mrs Cummings loves her garden but her children want to send her to the lunatic asylum to be rid of her.

An interesting read, although the stories don't develop much - it's more glimpses into lives. ( )