Reading suggestions for the exhibition On the other side of the ocean
Explore Curaçao past and present with this inspiring book selection (in Dutch).
Curaçao through the eyes of Charles Eyck, who once lived and worked there, and Curaçao today in the paintings of Rinella Alfonso. The exhibition On the other side of the ocean brings these two worlds together — and leaves you wanting more.
That’s why our collection coordinator compiled a selection of books (in Dutch) for anyone eager to explore themes such as heritage, identity, culture, and visual language. Or simply in the mood for a good read.
Keen-eyed visitors may also spot influences from Raenys Martis and Keetje Mans.
Happy reading!
Julien Ignacio – Goudjakhals
Each voice in this novel shares a personal quest for freedom and gives a face to those building a life in unfamiliar lands. Set in various places around the world — including Aruba and Curaçao — Goudjakhals introduces vibrant characters navigating the tension between roots and residence. Bold in form and style, this haunting novel stays with you long after reading. Published by Van Oorschot — a hallmark of quality.
Milouska Meulens – Moederland
With beautiful, whirling language, Milouska Meulens brings together cultures and eras — the Netherlands and Curaçao — in Moederland. Her writing is precise yet subtle, gently exposing painful truths. Erik Jan Harmens describes it as “a raw, loving story about letting go of a missing home and finding footing in chaos. With surgical precision, Meulens writes about tenderly severing the stranglehold of loyalty — followed by loneliness, but also love and gratitude.” A deeply personal, yet universal story that resonates.
Boeli van Leeuwen – De rots der struikeling
This debut novel by the Dutch-Antillean writer Boeli van Leeuwen has become a classic in Dutch literature. Upon its release in 1960, De rots der struikeling was immediately praised as a great surprise, and since then it has seen many reprints and translations. Van Leeuwen portrays the life of a young man raised in Curaçao, reconstructed from papers found after his death – the result of a dive for treasure at the bottom of a Venezuelan river. Intense and beautifully written, combining life wisdom with compelling storytelling.
Yaa Gyasi – Weg naar huis
A magnificent family epic about two Ghanaian women in the 18th century and their descendants, unfolding the story of slavery and its lasting effects up to modern times. In her impressive debut, Yaa Gyasi convincingly shows how the legacy of slavery still impacts our society today. Compellingly written, powerfully told, and deeply rooted in the present – an ideal choice for book clubs. Also available in English (Homegoing).
Frantz Fanon – De verworpenen van de aarde
In 2023, a new translation of De verworpenen der aarde was released, not by chance: this work by psychiatrist and writer Frantz Fanon (1925–1962) has inspired anti-racism movements worldwide for over 60 years. It is considered one of the most important philosophical classics on postcolonialism, race, oppression, and liberation. Recently, the VPRO commemorated Fanon’s 110th birthday, as the rebellious anger with which he formulated his model for decolonization remains just as palpable and relevant today.
Michiel van Kempen and Bert Paasman – Album van de Caraïbische poëzie
A gem of an anthology – not only because of the limited availability on this subject, but especially because it immerses you as a reader in the beauty and richness of the Caribbean linguistic region (including Suriname). Album van de Caraïbische poëzie brings together voices from the former Dutch West: Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius, and Suriname. A valuable introduction to a often overlooked literary tradition.
Mariana Enriquez – De gevaren van roken in bed
Even with Mariana Enriquez, the slums are never far away – although her stories take place in Latin America, and her magical-realistic style with a touch of horror gives the books a unique atmosphere. Enriquez creates worlds that are both repelling and fascinating: raw, mysterious, and intense. A treat for connoisseurs, and the number of fans within SCHUNCK is steadily growing.
Juan Rulfo – Pedro Páramo
A Mexican classic that is so beloved west of the Atlantic Ocean that many great authors have praised it. Juan Rulfo is considered a sort of Godfather of the magical-realistic novel. Don’t expect an easy read with this 1955 novella, but rather an exceptional one. The English translation is available in the library.