Picture a Trinidadian storyteller weaving tales that pulse with the heart of the Caribbean—meet Kevin Jared Hosein! Born in 1986 in Trinidad and Tobago, this rising star of Caribbean literature has captivated readers with his lyrical prose and gripping narratives. His novel Hungry Ghosts, set in the 1940s, is a haunting exploration of family, class, and historical violence, earning praise from literary giants like Hilary Mantel.
Hosein’s Indo-Trinidadian heritage and knack for blending Creole rhythms with vivid storytelling make him a unique voice. From young adult fiction to award-winning short stories, his work resonates with readers seeking authentic, emotionally charged tales. Ready to dive into his world? Let’s explore the life and stories of this Caribbean gem!
The Making of Kevin Jared Hosein
Kevin Jared Hosein grew up in an Indo-Trinidadian family in Trinidad, surrounded by a vibrant oral storytelling tradition. As a child, he was more into video games with rich narratives than books, but authors like Stephen King and Cormac McCarthy sparked his love for writing. Caribbean literature, especially Harold “Sonny” Ladoo’s No Pain Like This Body, shaped his gritty, evocative style. With no literature classes available at his school, Hosein pursued biology and environmental studies at the University of the West Indies, later channeling his scientific precision into crafting immersive worlds.
A science teacher by day, Hosein wrote by night, honing his craft through short stories and young adult novels. His persistence paid off with accolades like the 2018 Commonwealth Short Story Prize for his Trinidadian Creole tale “Passage,” proving his storytelling prowess on a global stage.
Kevin Jared Hosein’s Unforgettable Stories
Hosein’s bibliography is a treasure trove of Caribbean storytelling. His debut adult novel, Hungry Ghosts (2023), is a lyrical saga set in 1940s Trinidad, where colonial tensions and class divides collide. The story follows the Saroop family and the wealthy Changoors, unraveling themes of poverty, faith, and insatiable longing—drawing from Hindu mythology’s “hungry ghosts.” Critics lauded its vivid prose and psychological depth, with Bernardine Evaristo calling it “linguistically gorgeous.”
Before Hungry Ghosts, Hosein made waves with young adult novels. Littletown Secrets (2013), which he wrote and illustrated, won Best Children’s Book from the Trinidad Guardian. The Repenters (2016) and The Beast of Kukuyo (2018) tackled coming-of-age themes, earning nominations for the Bocas Prize and the International Dublin Literary Award. His short story “Passage,” written in Trinidadian Creole, showcases his ability to weave ecological and existential themes, reflecting his biology background.
Hosein’s style is a sensory feast, blending poetic flourishes with Creole cadences. His 1940s Trinidad settings pulse with lush landscapes and raw human struggles, making each page a portal to the Caribbean’s soul. Whether exploring violence, identity, or cultural hybridity, Hosein’s stories are as thought-provoking as they are immersive.
Why Kevin Jared Hosein Matters
Kevin Jared Hosein is more than a storyteller—he’s a cultural bridge, amplifying Trinidadian voices in global literature. His use of Trinidadian Creole challenges colonial linguistic norms, reclaiming Caribbean identity with pride. Works like Hungry Ghosts shine a light on the Indo-Trinidadian experience, weaving historical and personal narratives that resonate universally. His 2024 OCM Bocas Prize win and Walter Scott Prize shortlisting cement his influence.
By rooting his stories in Trinidad’s landscapes and oral traditions, Hosein preserves and reimagines Caribbean heritage. His ability to tackle heavy themes with compassion and beauty makes him a must-read for fans of literary fiction and postcolonial narratives.
- Born: 1986, Trinidad and Tobago
- Key Works: Hungry Ghosts, The Beast of Kukuyo, The Repenters, Littletown Secrets
- Awards: 2018 Commonwealth Short Story Prize, 2024 OCM Bocas Prize
Snag Hungry Ghosts and dive into Kevin Jared Hosein’s lyrical Caribbean world—your bookshelf will thank you!