‘The Irma Diaries’ book launch set for this month

Three months after Hurricane Irma devastated the British Virgin Islands, one local author has documented the catastrophe in a book called The Irma Diaries.

The Irma Diaries which was written by Angela Burnett, to stir global attention and action on climate change, captures stories of survivors who lived to tell the tale of one of the strongest hurricanes in modern history.

“The book is an avenue for the voices of small islanders who lived through this horrific event to be heard globally. I hope that through these stories, readers around the world can connect more personally with what it means to be on the frontlines of climate change and resolve to act,” Burnett said.

It is also the expectation that the book will serve as a means to help the Virgin Islands rebuild and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

Burnett has also informed that 50 percent of proceeds of the Irma Diaries will be donated.

Twenty-five percent will go towards the Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund and another twenty-five percent to the contributors of stories.

Commenting on the new book, Director of the Department of Culture, Luce Hodge-Smith said, “’The Irma Diaries’ is timely and plays a pivotal role in not only documenting the importance of identifying and recognising climate change and its effect on the world, but it is also important for us to consider the impact of natural disasters on cultural heritage.”

Hodge-Smith noted further that the department wishes to congratulate and encourage Burnett to keep writing and being a voice for climate change.

She also took the time to encourage persons to keep writing and documenting.

The official book launch ceremony will take place at the British Virgin Islands International Arbitration Centre, located on the 3rd Floor of Ashley Ritter House on Tuesday, December 19 at 5pm.

Among the highlights will be a reading of a survivor story by the author and a presentation to the Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund Board.