Thursday, April 11, 2024

Daufuskie Dreams: Setting out on a Gullah Journey by Josie Riviera

Welcome to Daufuskie Island, where time slows down, and the rhythms of Gullah culture come to life. This inviting getaway off the South Carolina coast is more than an island; it's a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Gullah people, descendants of West African slaves. These people were brought to work on the plantations of the American South, and founded communities in the Sea Islands, particularly Daufuskie.


I live in the Charlotte, North Carolina, area, which is about four hours away from Hilton Head Island.

When my family and I visit Daufuskie, we board a ferry from Hilton Head Island to Daufuskie, which takes about an hour. The ferry runs four times a day. Once we get there, wandering the sandy path beneath moss-draped oaks is one of my favorite ways to explore the island. Or, you can rent a golf cart.

The Gullah language, a creole rooted in West African languages, is a link to the past, inviting you to be a part of history when you visit.

If you peek through the local galleries and workshops, you'll see artisans craft sweetgrass baskets and wooden carvings, each piece telling a story of the Gullah way of life. On Daufuskie, tradition meets innovation.

Stay tuned for my next blog post, where I'll delve deeper into the fascinating world of Gullah culture on Daufuskie Island.


I'm thrilled that my sweet beach romance novel, Pink Coral Island, is available on Kindle Vella. I was thrilled to explore this episodic format, and hope you'll enjoy it, too.

I spent many months researching this book and the Gullah culture, which takes place on a fictional island off the South Carolina coast. The culture is an important part of the book, and becomes almost like another character.

Kindle Vella is available here, and the first three episodes are free! Start reading today.


Josie Riviera is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, historical, and inspirational romances that read like Hallmark movies. She lives in the Charlotte, NC, area with her wonderfully support husband. They share their home with an adorable Shih Tzu, who constantly needs grooming, and live in an old house forever needing renovation.


Sign up for her newsletter and get a FREE ebook on her website: josieriviera.com




No comments:

Post a Comment