From Ibadan To Hell Yard: 2nd Edition - Kindle

by Stuart W. Ramon Fortuné

Step into the tumultuous era from the early 1800s to 1962, where Trinidad & Tobago becomes the stage for the stirring tales of John, Sally, Jackson, and Jacob, and the genesis of the renowned Hell Yard. Among them, Jacob grapples with racial injustices, igniting a transformative odyssey that unravels his true identity within Hell Yard's heart. Inspired by the valor of his ancestors, Jacob fearlessly confronts the formidable families of former slave masters, steadfast in his pursuit of true freedom for the newly emancipated. Jacob’s love for the steelpan inspires him to unite his community in this riveting, historical tale of a generational struggle. The novella intertwines through significant events like slavery, the Canboulay Riot, Emancipation, suppression of African culture, and the relentless pursuit of independence. Yoruba & Orisha customs, Carnival, Canboulay, Patois, and the inception of the Steelpan infuse the narrative with vibrant cultural hues. Themes of identity and societal change resonate, provoking readers to ponder - Are we, as a people, freer now than in the mid-19th century? Has the plantation mentality truly departed? Fortuné's prose captivates with its dramatic, adventurous, and thought-provoking tone. "From Ibadan To Hell Yard" embodies the indomitable spirit of resilience, exalting the essence of "Trinis" and their enduring struggle for liberty. Embark on this riveting historical journey, where echoes of the past reverberate, entwined with the fervent quest for freedom and the preservation of cultural heritage.

100 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 27, 2025

About the author

Stuart W. Ramon Fortuné is a Trinidadian author, business consultant, and cultural advocate with over 16 years of experience in marketing, business development, and the creative industries. He holds an International Master of Business Development and Innovation from the Arthur Lok Jack Global School of Business and a BSc in Management Studies from the University of London.

His debut novella, From Ibadan to Hell Yard, traces the journey from Yoruba enslavement to the birth of Trinidad’s steelband movement and has been added to the President’s Residence Library and the NALIS Heritage Library. The work has since expanded into a Grammy-considered cinematic audiobook in the category Best Audio Book, Narration & Storytelling Recording, uniting literature, acting, and original music in an immersive storytelling experience.

Building on the success of the book, Stuart launched a Ministry of Education-approved Secondary School Educational Tour, bringing the story to life for students across Trinidad and Tobago through interactive performances, historical insight, and creative engagement. He is also the founder of the Annual Children’s Holiday Culture Camp, designed to foster cultural identity, confidence, and creative expression among young people.

Stuart serves as a Mentor at the Founder Institute, Marketing Director of the Trinidad & Tobago Writers Guild, and co-host of The Big Potato Podcast, where he champions Caribbean entrepreneurship and cultural innovation.

Reviews

[Stuart Fortuné · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful, accessible journey through Caribbean history, identity, resistance, and the birth of steelpan.