BLAGROVE JR., Ishmahil. Carnival: A Photographic and Testimonial History of the Notting Hill Carnival.

(London): Ricenpeas, 2014. First edition. Hardcover. 29.6cm by 22.8cm. 351 pages. Preface by Margaret Busby. A substantial documentary and visual record of Black British cultural history, sound systems, masquerade traditions, political struggle, and community activism surrounding the Carnival. The volume details the history and cultural significance of the Notting Hill Carnival from its origins in the aftermath of the 1958 Notting Hill riots through its development into Europe’s largest street festival. Richly illustrated with colour and black-and-white photographs by numerous photographers including Val Wilmer, Charlie Phillips, Vernon St Hilaire, Allan “Capitan” Thornhill, and others, alongside firsthand testimonies from carnival pioneers, musicians, activists, DJs, organisers, and community figures. A very good copy in photo-illustrated boards.