CD Review no. 45 | All CD Reviews

I recently received the first three volumes (three CDs) of the "Istwa Peyi Dayiti" prepared and presented by Jean Julien. The first volume covers the years 1492-1697, the second volume, the years 1697-1802 and the third, the years 1802-1812. According to Jean Julien, the next three volumes are in the works. This huge task was undertaken with a view to contribute to the Collection of the 200th Anniversary of the Independence of Haiti. Indeed, it is a monumental task.

Think a minute of the work involved here. I am assuming that Mr. Julien had to gather the information, organize it, check, and double check, and even triple-check at times the accuracy of the data collected. Since the information has to be recorded, it had to be summarized somewhat. This is an enormous task.

I must confess that I have not yet listened to all three volumes, but I can say, based on what I have listened to so far, that this CD is immensely enjoyable, informative and necessary. The first volume, which covers the Indian Period, is quite detailed and interesting. There are a number of small details that one learns and this brings new light to certain cultural and historical facts. What makes it most interesting too is that the history is told in Haitian Kreyòl. Mr. Julien's delivery is clear and made in a deep baritone voice. He sounds at ease reading the text, does not stumble over the words, in short, shows a mastery of his subject. His Haitian vocabulary is excellent. Mr. Julien's curriculum vitae is quite impressive and his training has served him well in this endeavor. As a journalist, organizer, lawyer, professor, and with a degree in Economics, Marketing and Accounting, as well as a strong interest in research on the history of Haiti, Mr. Julien was ideally placed to undertake what is undoubtedly a huge project. The result is highly commendable.

Though non-Kreyòl speakers will not immediately profit from it, this work should provide those interested in Haitian History a powerful incentive to learn the language. It is never too late.

If I have a criticism, it is that only in Vol. 3 do you find some information on the content of that particular CD, such as the subject matter covered in the chapters. Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 do not have such information. In the same vein, only the back of Vol.3 provides some biographical information on Professor Julien. I think this should have been printed on Vol. 1.

But do not let this deter you from getting your copies of "Istwa Peyi Dayiti". Due to the subject matter, I would say that it is imperative that every Haitian provide Mr. Julien with adequate support by buying his or her own copy. I, for one, cannot wait for the next three volumes and I present all due respect to Mr. Julien for this work and wish him the best.

Serge Bellegarde