Jacaranda signs life story from 'Windrush' passenger Gardner

Jacaranda has signed the story of Alford Dalrymple Gardner, who travelled on the "Empire Windrush". 

Founder Valerie Brande acquired world all language rights directly from the author. The currently untitled work will be published in 2023, 75 years after the ship docked in Tilbury, Essex. 

Gardner’s story will be a first-hand account from 22nd June 1948 — now officially known as Windrush Day — and will explore his life that has spanned almost a century, recounting the highs and lows that West Indian migrants of his generation encountered on travelling to Britain.

"Gardner’s book shows an ongoing commitment from Jacaranda to ensure that the stories of the Windrush generation are told, with books such as War to Windrush by Stephen Bourne and Circle of Five by Harris Joshua et al in its back catalogue," the publisher wrote. "The memoir will receive a 360-degree publicity and marketing campaign with planned partnerships to mark the anniversary."

Editorial assistant Noemi Vallone said: “It’s a moving story of a man who decided to fight for freedom and peace for a country that wanted him only in its time of need. Alford’s story is filled with major events of the 20th Century—from the Second World War to the start of the ’Windrush’ era. We are so proud to publish his memoir and we know the readers won’t be able to stop themselves from falling for his story either.” 

Jazzmine Breary, the publisher’s newly-appointed chief operating officer, commented: "Alford Gardner’s memoir represents the experience of a generation of Black Britons who have contributed immensely to this country. It is an incredible privilege to have a first-hand account of the historically momentous voyage on the ’Empire Windrush’ as we approach the 75th anniversary, and we at Jacaranda are honoured to present Alford’s memoir to the world."