In order to assist some of you in the paths of understanding many of the beliefs and practices of African Religious Traditions, here are some books about Lukumi/Santeria, Palo Mayombe and Voudou. Read and enjoy! _ J.
The Altar of My Soul by Marta Moreno Vega (Ballantine Books 2000) The authors tale of her walk with the Orishas.
Outside the Bones by Lyn Di Iorio (Arte Publico Press 2001) This murder mystery finds a character who investigates the life of her neighbor, who she has a crush on, and discovers a world of Spirits and rituals of Palo Mayombe.
The Red of His Shadow by Mayra Montero (HarperCollins Publishing 2002)- This story is about a Vodou priest and priestess in rivalry regarding overseeing the Gaga carnival groups of Haiti and Dominican Republic.
When the Spirits Dance Mambo by Marta Moreno Vega (Three Rivers Press 2004) – This story is set in New York where Puerto Rican immigrants bring the Orishas of Lucumi/Santeria to our attention and how the author will follow her family’s traditions.
Erzulie’s Skirt by Ana-Maurine Lara (Redbone Press 2006) – In this book follow the trials and tribulations of the central characters in this novel, a couple who practice Voudou and other spiritual practice on the island of Hispanola.
The Accidental Santera by Irete Lazo (St Martin’s Press 2008) – A Puerto Rican college professor is drawn to Santeria when her life is in turmoil and returns to the spiritual practices of her family and the early memories of her introduction the the Orishas.
