Ayesha Curry makes waves with her bold debut novel choice

In a recent development within the literary world, Ayesha Curry has ventured into publishing with the establishment of Sweet July Books, an imprint dedicated to giving a platform to diverse voices. This move marks a significant expansion of her career, which includes being a chef, entrepreneur, bestselling author, and mother. The first novel published under her imprint is 'Honeysuckle and Bone,' authored by Trisha Tobias. This book tells the story of Carina, an 18-year-old who travels to Jamaica to work as a nanny for a wealthy family and soon discovers unsettling secrets along with supernatural elements associated with their estate. The narrative explores themes of self-discovery, maturity, and the complex relationships that Carina encounters while weaving in aspects of Jamaican culture. The inspiration for 'Honeysuckle and Bone' stems from Tobias’s upbringing and familial connections to Jamaica. She shared that her mother, who was born in Jamaica, often recounted folk tales and Duppy stories, which greatly influenced her writing. Curry herself emphasized the importance of Jamaican culture in the novel, stating that it resonates throughout the pages and adds authenticity to the story. It also incorporates cultural references such as Jamaican beef patties and coco bread, which root the story deeply in its setting. During a segment on CBS Mornings, Tobias articulated her goal for the book, noting that she wants to convey a message to young readers: that mistakes don’t have to define a person’s future. She aims to inspire hope and affirmation that every individual can choose a different path moving forward. For her, writing is a transformative experience—a process where unexpected twists and turns often arise, enhancing the craft of storytelling. Ayesha Curry, with her strong ties to Jamaica, expressed her enthusiasm for Tobias’s work and what it represents. In addition to discussing her publishing venture, Curry also touched upon her experience as a mother of four, providing insight into her life changes and the challenges that come with raising children ranging from 8 months to 12 years old. She mentioned her initial skepticism regarding parenting dynamics as families grow but shared how her life has been enriched by these experiences. Curry aims for 'Honeysuckle and Bone' not only to entertain but also to cultivate a love of reading among young adults—especially those seeking significant and meaningful literature.