"Crick Crack, Monkey" is a novel by Trinidadian author Merle Hodge that tells the story of a young girl named Tee who struggles to find her place in the world as she grows up in post-colonial Trinidad.
The novel begins with Tee's childhood, when she is living with her mother and grandmother in a small village in Trinidad. Despite the love and care of her family, Tee feels like an outsider because of her light skin and mixed race heritage. She is constantly teased and bullied by her peers, who call her "crick crack" due to her light skin color.
As Tee grows older, she becomes more aware of the social and political tensions in Trinidad, as well as the ongoing struggles for independence and self-determination. She becomes involved in the Black Power movement and begins to question the values and beliefs that have been imposed on her by the colonizers.
Through her journey, Tee learns to embrace her identity and find her own voice, even as she faces challenges and setbacks. She becomes more confident in herself and her abilities, and eventually finds the strength to stand up for what she believes in.
Overall, "Crick Crack, Monkey" is a powerful and moving coming-of-age story that explores the complexities of race, identity, and self-discovery in a post-colonial society. It is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that will resonate with readers of all ages.
