It's a King Thing

Monday, 5 August 2019

A Masterclass in Sacrifice & Self-Discovery: Nicole Dennis-Benn’s Second Novel Shines

Nationally celebrated novelist, Nicole Dennis-Benn is back with a gripping new novel! This time it is the tumultuous tale of Patsy (PATSY, Liveright Hardcover $26.95, 432pp, ISBN: 978-1-63149-563-2); a Jamaican woman who has finally received her long-held dream of a visa to America. She intends to use this visa as an opportunity to escape the poverty that surrounds her in a Kingston ghetto and reunite with her oldest friend-turned-lover Cicely; who left the island years before under a shroud of mystery. However, this escape plan does not include Patsy’s five year old daughter, Tru.

“She squeezes her daughter in a tight embrace, wishing she could be satisfied with the simple pleasure of feeling the sun on her eyelids and the embrace of her daughter. But as she inhales the smell of Blue Magic hair oil she uses in Tru’s hair, which mingles with the smell of beef patties and exhaust fumes from the traffic, and as she listens to the sounds of rush hour on Half-Way Tree Road clamoring around them, Patsy only feels her secret yearning for more deepening. (pp.32-33)

Valentine’s Day Reading: A Review of Josie Silver’s “One Day in December”

Photo Credit: Mwahaki King Photography

Now you may be wondering why I would recommend a book for Valentine’s Day if it has December in the title, but trust me Josie Silver’s debut novel is full of enough charm, realism and tender moments to melt even the iciest hearts this Valentine’s Day. Across London, Scotland, Bali and Australia, we follow the friendship and foibles of Laurie, Jack and Sarah for almost ten years. While the central story is an emotional connection between Laurie and Jack with the romantic fervour to rival Love Actually;“One Day in December” is so much more than a simple love story. It is a highly relatable tale of one’s twenties, wherein Silver expertly addresses the themes of friendship, change and overall turbulence the decade carries in shaping the people we become.

MEJU: The Captivating Culinary Delight in Davis Square

A short walk down the hill from Tufts University, on the outskirts of Boston, brings you quickly into the bustling streets of Davis Square. There you will find the welcoming aroma of freshly brewed coffee, mingled with the sweet and spicy scent of enchiladas wafting up from the Painted Burro Mexican restaurant. Into this delightful mix of sights and sounds comes a Korean restaurant to rival any of the culinary competition on the block.

Aptly named "Meju" due to its prevalent use of the popular ingredient throughout its menu; the dishes that come out of this kitchen are so delectable they’ll have you planning your next visit before you've even finished the appetizer. Speaking of starters, Meju has a great selection ranging from traditional dumplings to scallion pancakes, spicy rice cakes and sweet potato fries. A personal favourite is the restaurant’s fusion take on Korean buns. These fluffy, feather-soft buns are dripping in bright orange sauce filled with succulent pork and delectable cream cheese and pickles.

5 Songs I’m Loving Right Now

As I write this, large parts of the world are enjoying the start of Spring. Birds chirping, flowers blooming, sun shining! Here in Boston however, we are still deep in the throes of winter, having just emerged from yet another massive snowstorm. I’ve been listening to a lot of new music lately, so I thought it would be good idea to share some of these tunes; to either complement your joyful springtime vibes or to help you combat the lingering winter blues.

First up:

Leave Me Alone - Calypso Rose ft. Manu Chao (Kubiyashi Remix ft. Machel Montano)

This energetic new installation from the queen of Calypso herself, the indomitable Calypso Rose, has taken the Carnival 2017 season by storm. The living legend joined forces with “King of Soca”, Machel Montano and Franco-Spanish musician Mano Chao to produce an exhilarating song, full of the vibrant pulsating rhythms for which the genre is known.

The institution of Carnival has come under scrutiny in recent months, given the sexual harassment of women during parades and the wider discussion regarding violence against women in the Caribbean. “Leave Me Alone” has come at the right time, emerging as an anthem for women who just want to have a great time and celebrate the effervescence of Caribbean culture in peace.

“Leave Me Alone” has old school calypso vibes, new school swagger and an international dimension that makes it both familiar to soca junkies and a perfect introduction for Caribbean Carnival newbies. Manu Chao’s gentle guitar and subtle Spanish inflections complement the exuberance of Rose and Montano; culminating in a song that is at once comforting, fun and ultimately thrilling – the true spirit of Carnival!

Stormzy’s Stunning Debut Album – A Review of Gang Signs and Prayer

Image Source: www.stormzy.com

Michael Omari a.k.a Stormzy a.k.a The Problem a.k.a Wicked Skengman, dropped his much-anticipated debut studio album “Gang Signs and Prayer” this past Friday to the excitement of grime fans everywhere. After a surprise performance with Ed Sheeran at the Brit Awards earlier in the week, there was a great buzz around Stormzy and this new album does not disappoint. “Gang Signs and Prayer” not only excellently captures the South London youth experience, but also takes the listener on a compelling journey as the album tackles issues of love, race, religion and urban culture at large.

What's for Dinner? | Jamaican Curry Chicken & Basmati Rice

Hello everyone! Today, I’m sharing another childhood favourite: Jamaican Curry Chicken. I can still recall many Sunday afternoons sitting on a veranda in suburban St. Andrew with a plate of curry chicken and rice in my lap as Beres Hammond’s melodious voice drifted over from a neighbour’s radio, crooning out hits like “I Feel Good” and “Rockaway”.

Jamaica has a sizeable population of Indian descent given the history of indentured servitude which began in 1845, due to the social and economic changes that arose after the emancipation of slaves in 1838. Between 1845 and 1917 over 36,000 Indians came to the island, and after this period smaller numbers came to Jamaica in the twentieth century as merchants rather than labourers.

Fast forward to 2017 and it’s safe to say that the varied ethnic cultures in Jamaica have influenced each other greatly. As a natural product of this passage of time, recipes have evolved accordingly. Thus, the Jamaican Curry Chicken we see today is distinct from the original chicken curry seen in contemporary India. It has become a Jamaican culinary classic that embodies the nation’s motto “Out of Many, One People.”

Traditionally, Jamaican Curry Chicken is served over white rice, with curried Russet Potatoes (or Irish Potatoes as they are known in Jamaica) mixed in with the chicken. However, in the recipe below I have made a slight change and replaced the potatoes with red bell peppers. Don’t get me wrong, I love the conventional way of cooking curry chicken; but as we’ve seen culture is fluid and there’s always room for innovation. As such, I thought this would be a fun and delicious tweak on tradition. Plus, the sweetness of the peppers compliments the curry sauce beautifully; providing a depth of flavour that the potatoes can sometimes lack as they tend to absorb the sauce and blend in with the rice, rather than add another dimension of their own. So, whether you’re a Jamaican looking for a taste of home or a foreigner looking to experience the cultural complexity and flavours of our island paradise, this dish is for you! Let’s get started:

Protoje’s Powerful New Single - Blood Money

“Come take a look inna Jamaica, injustice in the place. If what you see nuh really faze you, then you ah di problem weh we face too.”- Protoje

Video Source: Protoje’s YouTube Channel | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYZo7CbLJjjfEOqYwknzzow

If you are Jamaican or have any ties to the country, you’ll know that it has been a harrowing time for the nation recently. Despite its reputation, Jamaica has been anything but paradise in the past months as the tropical isle is once again being choked by the vice-like grip of crime and violence. Now, high levels of crime and violence are hardly a new phenomenon for the country. According to the United Nations, Jamaica had the highest murder rate globally in 2005 and it remains one of the highest today[1].

Violent elements of the nation’s history are seen in “Blood Money” with references to the Tivoli Incursion of 2010[2] and the long-standing institutionalized nature of corruption through patronage politics[3]. Historically, such political corruption has cost Jamaica approximately US$18 billion[4]. However, although high levels crime and violence are not new, this does not make them acceptable. Furthermore, crime and violence should not be allowed to spiral out of control unchallenged. As Protoje states, “If you build it pon crime then crime will haffi find you, and that’s how it’s been always. That nuh frustrate you like it do to me?”

It should be said that while violent crime levels in Jamaica were higher than others with a similar per capita profile, they were on the decline nationally until recently. Now, there is a different atmosphere in the air. The general lawlessness, not to mention the elevated abduction and murder of women and girls has struck a chord with the populace. The volatile situation has inspired small scale protests and widespread fear throughout the island. Moreover, while the situation in Jamaica is alarming; violence, political corruption and socioeconomic stratification are not solely Jamaican issues. As such, Protoje’s single “Blood Money” could not have come at a more appropriate time. Its articulate depiction of the current state of affairs in the country and call for change resonate with concerned Jamaicans, reggae aficionados and contemporary viewers of global politics alike.

Seasonal Favourites - Winter

“In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan, earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone; snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow” – In the Bleak Midwinter, Christina Rossetti. January 1872

Hello everyone! I hope 2017 is treating you well so far. The hymnal lyric above was one of my favourites growing up and the chilly weather in Boston has gotten the tune stuck in my head lately. If it does leave my head, it is quickly replaced with California Dreamin’ (all the leaves are brown and the sky is grey. I’ve been for a walk on a winter’s day…) Suffice it to say, I could feel a theme emerging in my head. At the end of last summer, I compiled a few of my favourite things (Cue: Julie Andrews and some Austrian children) from Summer 2016. So, I thought the best thing to brighten up my winter would be to do something similar and share with you some of the products that are helping me to survive these long months.

So, here we go:

CLOTHING

L.L. Bean Ultrawarm Coat, Long

The first item up is this deep chocolate coat from L.L.Bean. The down insulation has kept me toasty warm in some truly frigid Boston winters. Furthermore, the coat comes with ample storage space; two zipped pockets on the outside, one smaller pocket with a Velcro closure on the inside and a very deep breast pocket with a zip to keep items safe.

We all know that quality winter apparel can be a bit of an investment; and at $239, this supremely soft winter coat may be a bit pricey. However, it is still a fraction of the cost of similar Canada Goose products that can retail upwards of $1300. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love the style and design of the popular Canada Goose coats but we can’t always afford such an expense; so it’s great to have this gem from L.L. Bean. Furthermore, it’s exquisite craftsmanship, comfort and utility have made it well worth my while.

Sorrel - A Traditional Jamaican Christmas Drink

As some of you know, I grew up in England until I was about ten years old before moving to my mother's native Jamaica. My first Christmas in JA was a bit of an adjustment due to the heat, but one thing that helped to ease the transition was this splendid Christmas drink called "Sorrel". The beverage is made from the sepals of the sorrel plant and the earliest references to the plant in Jamaica can be traced to the late 1600s and the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade.

The vibrant, rich red of the sorrel petals, along with a generous helping of sugar and rum combine to make a flavourful and refreshing Christmas treat. This year, my mum is coming to visit me in Boston and no Jamaican Christmas is complete without a glass or two ~~(or twenty)~~ of sorrel. So, I figured I'd better get a move on! The recipe I'm using is one that was passed down from my grandma to my mum and now to me; and it's absolutely delicious!

What's for Dinner? ~ Quick & Easy Weeknight Pasta Dish

Recently, I shared a recipe for homemade meatballs in marinara sauce. I know some people don't enjoy spending a lot of time in the kitchen, but for me chopping up parsley, rolling the meatballs in the palm of my hand and making the sauce from scratch is great fun. However, I will admit that all that jazz can be far more time-intensive than I can always manage on a weeknight. So, if I end up with a weeknight craving for pasta I often turn to this meal. It's an updated version of a cheesy pasta dish my mum used to whip up after I got home from school. Now, I will admit that this isn't one of my healthier options, but it reminds me of home. It's delicious and comforting and at the end of the day life is all about balance.

Winter Staple | Caheez Satin Lined Hats

Hello everyone! As December steps in and it's only getting colder I felt it was time for another chat about some of my wintertime staples. If you missed my last Winter Staple post about one of my favourite hoodie brands: Jobedu, you can check it out here. As for today, I'm talking about hats; specifically the brand, Caheez.

I stumbled upon Caheez hats quite by accident while scrolling through Instagram about a year ago. The stylish woollen beanies claim to "enhance and protect the hairfrom elements within and beyond our natural control." Having lived through a couple of truly dreadful New England winters, I was desperate for something that could keep me warm while also not damaging my hair. I love the look of woollen beanies, but often the wool can strip curly hair of moisture; which coupled with the dryness of Boston winter, only creates more issues. I've always know that satin and silk products counter this problem by locking in moisture but I'd never heard of woollen hats that were lined with satin before, so I was eager to find out more about this product.

I'm always sceptical about companies that I hear about on the Internet but after learning about the founder Carla Helené 's commitment to the quality of the materials and overall product, it became clear that this was a respectable brand run by passion, hard work and determination. I decided to give it a go. My first purchase was The Purled Newsboy Cap in Cranberry** with a 10" diameter.

What's For Dinner? ~ Healthy Fish & Chips

Hello lovely people! I'm back at it again with a seafood recipe. Another delicious cod dish. Spending large parts of my childhood in London means that there are few things I love as much as some good fish and chips. And although I'm hoping to do a family trip back to the UK sometime soon, it has been quite a while since I've had decent fish and chips. That was until I puttered around the kitchen and came up with this gem.

Having lived in California and New England in my adult life, I've had my share of mouth-watering fish tacos, lobster and crab; but I must say I've been a tad disappointed with the American attempts at fish and chips I've sampled so far. BUT if any of you know of any great fish and chip places in New England (or the wider US) do let me know in the comments below. I'm always up for trying new places and would love to give them a whirl :)

With all that being said, there is still a bit of American flare to my healthy twist on fish and chips. I'm talking about sweet potato fries! I'm sure other places have sweet potato fries, but it was in America that I found them particularly ubiquitous. Right up there with clam chowdah in New England and BBQ ribs in the South, sweet potato fries are one of my favourite things to eat in America. As such, I thought I'd give them a try at home.

Trying to stay in the healthy lane, I rounded out the dish with breaded cod and steamed broccoli. So yes, while this is a far cry from the greasy seafood fare of my youth, it is still at its core simply fish and chips. Just with a bit of an update...and what's not to love about that?

For this dish to serve 2 people you'll need the following:

Winter Staple | Jobedu Hoodies

Image Source: mwahakikingphotography

As this blog is still very new it's good to give you all more background information about little old me, so we can get to know each other better. Back in 2011, I spent the first six months of the year living in Amman, Jordan. While six months may seem like a short time, they were truly some of the most exhilarating and eye-opening months of my life. To be honest, all of 2011 was a very transformative year for me in terms of personal development; as I spent the latter half of the year working with the United Nations on international finance and development issues. 2011 was a wonderfully exciting year that I could go on about for ages but that's another blog post all together. However, if you are interested in hearing more about those adventures, let me know in the comment section and I'll think about sharing them in a Throwback Thursday post.

But for today, I am discussing the Jobedu clothing line that I learned about while I was in Jordan. I was studying Arabic at the University of Jordan in Amman when some friends told me about this quirky store in Jabal Weibdeh that sold fun and interesting clothes that embodied the city’s growing youth culture. I had complimented the T-Shirt that one of my friends was wearing at the time; a black shirt adorned with the phrase “Parental Advisory: Jordanian Content”, and the conversation flowed from there. A few days later, a group of us were walking down the white cobbled streets of Jabal Weibdeh heading towards the Jobedu store. The buildings around us were all a similar blend of limestone and cement with a view of Downtown Amman in the distance, but we managed to find the store with ease. Outside, the powerful afternoon sun illuminated the streets, casting its light on roadside Nescafe and Tea vendors; but it left the Jobedu store in shadow making it difficult to see what lay inside. I pushed open the glass door and as my eyes adjusted to the light, I was enthralled by the brightly coloured fabrics that lined the walls from the floor to the ceiling.

I was drawn to a hoodie with the company’s signature yellow logo of Jordan’s ubiquitous “Camel Crossing” road sign, set against jet black material.

What's for Dinner? ~ Homemade Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Hello everyone, today I'm sharing my recipe for turkey meatballs in marinara sauce. Evoking your favourite memories of "Lady and the Tramp", this is a delicious dish, sure to delight your taste buds. So, let's get started!

The Future is Looking Bright: A Review of Protoje's Album, Ancient Future

Ancient Future Album Cover

Protoje's studio album, Ancient Future is an aptly named, searing look into Jamaica's history and what can be surmised about the nation's future based on the mistakes of the past. This message comes home starkly in the track “Criminal” with its reference to the murder of musical and social icon, Peter Tosh.

The sentiment is echoed in the collaborative single “Sudden Flight” with Jesse Royal and songstress Sevana, which highlights the dangers and hypocrisy of garrison politics[1].

What's for Dinner? ~ Basil Lemon Codfish

It's safe to say that I absolutely LOVE seafood (a natural consequence of growing up on islands, I suppose) It's healthy and delicious, so even in America I try to get as much of it in my diet as possible. I chose to make this dish with cod and simple things I had lying around the kitchen. It's quick, easy and flavourful. So let's get started!

A Delight for Both Bibliophiles and Music Lovers: Mitch Albom's The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto - A Review

Well, Mitch Albom has captured our hearts and imaginations once again. This time with his latest novel, "The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto." Centred around the life of fictional pop star Frankie Presto and the transformative impact his music has on the lives of those around him, it is a wonderful novel for bibliophiles and music lovers alike.

Seasonal Favourites - Summertime

While it's still sweltering by midday, there is now a crisp bite to the early morning air as we rush off to work, subtly reminding Bostonians that Autumn (and ultimately winter) is coming. As I am in no mood to say goodbye to summer and delve back into New England winter, I thought I'd share with you some of my favourite things that I found and loved over the summer. Have a look below:

MUSIC

One song that I have had on repeat all summer is from up-and-coming Jamaican songstress, Jane Macgizmo. In "Babylon", the young singer delivers a powerful and unique sound, her voice at once melodious, haunting and utterly captivating. Aesthetically, the production quality of the music video is phenomenal; crisp and clean with the natural beauty and majesty of the Jamaica countryside on full display.

In post-colonial Jamaica, the term "Babylon" is often synonymous with systematic, structural and/or mental oppression. For at least 4 minutes however, the soothing tones of Macgizmo's music help her listener transcend the turmoil of the world around them and be at peace, with the world and within themselves.

Another favourite that is a bit more up tempo and in keeping with the summer vibes is Shakira's latest release with Carlos Vices, " La Bicicleta". It's safe to say that I've been a staunch Shakira fan since "Whenever, Wherever" (En Español: Suerte) came out ~~in 2001~~ ...a while ago and "Hips Don't Lie" was a staple of my adolescent playlists. So, it's always exciting for me when she releases new music and this song did not disappoint. "La Bicicleta" was released in May, with an accompanying music video in July, that will have you up and dancing in no time. You'll want to grab your best friends, a bicycle and head to the nearest beach to catch the last moments of summer ASAP.

BOOKS

The only thing I love more than new summer music is having my nose buried in a good summer read (preferably by the pool or in a hammock on the beach). This summer, the book I could not put down came in the form of Mitch Albom's "The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto". Having loved everything Albom wrote since "Tuesdays with Morrie", I actually got this book on pre-order last November, but life has been so hectic I didn't have a chance to crack it open until the summertime and it has been well worth the wait. Centred around the life of fictional pop star Frankie Presto and the transformative impact his music and talent has on those around him, it is a wonderful novel for bibliophiles and music lovers alike. For a more in-depth book review, see my post here.

HOMEWARE

To me, the Malibu Citrus Glow scented candle from The Bath & Body Works is just heavenly. When burnt the candle produces a strong scent of salt and sand evocative of a hot summer's day at the beach, coupled with the citrus aroma of orange and lemon. And with the name "Malibu", you will be hard pressed to find a candle that more truly captures the warmth and excitement of summer. It's a simple, elegant way to brighten up your home in the summertime or to bring a little sunshine to the cold winter months :)

I can't seem to find a link online, but it may still be available in select stores, so check your local Bath & Body Works.

SKINCARE

The Body Shop - Oils of Life Sleeping Cream*

This product is part of a larger skincare range, but I only used the sleeping cream in conjunction with my regular drugstore moisturiser. However, if you're interested in learning about the other Oils of Life products you can find more info on the website here.

Now, I will admit that I usually have clear skin and don't worry too often about pimples etc. BUT work, family, finances and just life generally can get the better of all of us...not to mention those time of the month cookie/cake/chocolate cravings -- am I right, ladies? And it's often our skin that pays the price. Well, I must say this little jar of goodness from The Body Shop has seen me through a lot this summer. It carried me through the stresses of grad school, finishing my thesis and ~~the hell of~~ moving apartments.

I may have been overwhelmed, but the combination of black cumin oil, camellia oil and rosehip meant that my skin never showed it. The infusion of chamomile into the sleeping cream is also very calming, which made it a great addition to my bedtime routine.

My skin can get rather dry in the Boston winter, and while the Oils of Life Sleeping Cream has been wonderful in a hectic summer, I'm sure its moisturising powers will truly come in handy in the brutal winter months to come.

So, what have you been enjoying this summer? Tell me all about your favs in the comments below; maybe you can share some gems to help me bridge the transition into Autumn :)

*Always check the labels on any skincare products before beginning use to ensure that you're not allergic to any of the ingredients

Saturday, 16 April 2016

ABOUT

Hello there! Welcome to Mwahaki King's little slice of the Internet. Here's a bit about the woman behind the blog:

Mwahaki King is a lifestyle blogger who spent her childhood in the United Kingdom before moving to her mother’s home country of Jamaica for high school. She later relocated to America for university and work; and is now currently based in Boston, Massachusetts. In between that, she spent six months living in the Middle East during the Arab Spring. All of these places have left an indelible mark on her; shaping her culinary, musical, and literary interests.

The world can be a troubling place and this blog is a space to share some of the things that brighten hers. Mwahaki has named the space, “It’s a King Thing”; and she is eager to share her thoughts on her favourite foods, albums, books and much more with YOU!

Feel free to look around :)

TO CONTACT

📧 For Business Enquiries, please EMAIL: contact@itisakingthing.com

SOCIAL MEDIA

🐤 Twitter: @itisakingthing

📷 Instagram: @itisakingthing

It's a King Thing

Pages

Monday, 5 August 2019

A Masterclass in Sacrifice & Self-Discovery: Nicole Dennis-Benn’s Second Novel Shines

Wednesday, 13 February 2019

Valentine’s Day Reading: A Review of Josie Silver’s “One Day in December”

Saturday, 15 July 2017

MEJU: The Captivating Culinary Delight in Davis Square

Friday, 17 March 2017

5 Songs I’m Loving Right Now

Monday, 27 February 2017

Stormzy’s Stunning Debut Album – A Review of Gang Signs and Prayer

Saturday, 25 February 2017

What's for Dinner? | Jamaican Curry Chicken & Basmati Rice

Tuesday, 21 February 2017

Protoje’s Powerful New Single - Blood Money

Monday, 6 February 2017

Seasonal Favourites - Winter

Wednesday, 21 December 2016

Sorrel - A Traditional Jamaican Christmas Drink

Thursday, 8 December 2016

What's for Dinner? ~ Quick & Easy Weeknight Pasta Dish

Monday, 5 December 2016

Winter Staple | Caheez Satin Lined Hats

Sunday, 27 November 2016

What's For Dinner? ~ Healthy Fish & Chips

Thursday, 17 November 2016

Winter Staple | Jobedu Hoodies

Monday, 14 November 2016

What's for Dinner? ~ Homemade Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Friday, 30 September 2016

The Future is Looking Bright: A Review of Protoje's Album, Ancient Future

Monday, 19 September 2016

What's for Dinner? ~ Basil Lemon Codfish

Thursday, 1 September 2016

A Delight for Both Bibliophiles and Music Lovers: Mitch Albom's The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto - A Review

Tuesday, 30 August 2016

Seasonal Favourites - Summertime

Saturday, 16 April 2016

ABOUT