In this novel about a young man’s vacation at a famous Jamaica resort, the narrator Jeff Vetch, reflects on the unforgettable time he shared there with friends and family. From deep sea dangers he experiences to a lost treasure hunt for a priceless gem, this tale is replete with famous people whom Jeff meets along the way on the island. His vacation is one he’ll remember forever and so will the reader! Another charming novel featuring the adventures of character Jeff Vetch, written by Louis W. Hirschmann.

Purchase on Amazon

BOOK SUMMARY

The document is a nostalgic narrative about a teenager’s journey from a strict New England prep school to a family vacation in Jamaica during the spring of 1964.

Family Vacation to Jamaica in 1964

The narrator recalls a family trip to Jamaica in April 1964, contrasting it with their experiences at a strict New England prep school. The anticipation of a tropical paradise filled with activities and family bonding is highlighted throughout the narrative.

• The narrator was 14 years old and had just completed a grueling semester at Sheffolk Prep.
• The family planned a two-week vacation at Round Hill, Jamaica, with various activities like scuba diving and horseback riding.
• The narrator’s family included their mother Dolores, stepdad Adolph, and older siblings Alec and Sharon.
• The trip was a welcome escape from the cold and strict environment of prep school.

Unexpected Encounter at Miami Airport

While waiting for his family in Miami, the narrator unexpectedly meets Headmaster Applegate and his daughter Barb, who are also traveling to Jamaica. This encounter adds an element of surprise and excitement to the trip.

• The narrator was initially alone in Miami due to a delayed flight of his family.
• He was surprised to see Headmaster Applegate and his daughter Barb at the airport. ​
• Barb and the narrator’s families were both staying at Round Hill, creating a potential for social interaction during the vacation. ​

Flight to Jamaica and Family Dynamics ​

The family boards a DC-3 flight to Jamaica, filled with humor and light-hearted banter about the plane and their upcoming vacation. The dynamics between family members reveal their personalities and relationships.

• The family had a connecting flight from Miami to Montego Bay on an old DC-3. ​
• Alec jokes about the plane’s age and the potential inheritance from their grandfather.
• The family expresses confidence in their safety and excitement for the trip.

Meeting New Friends on the Flight

During the flight, the narrator meets Justine, a girl who works at Round Hill, and learns about her connection to his pen pal, Jean-Louis. This connection enhances the narrator’s excitement for the vacation.

• Justine is from Paris and is related to the narrator’s pen pal, Jean-Louis.
• Justine mentions that Jean-Louis will be arriving in Jamaica soon for a wedding. ​
• The narrator feels a sense of serendipity in meeting Justine and learning about their shared connections.

Arrival in Jamaica and First Impressions

Upon arriving in Jamaica, the narrator is captivated by the island’s beauty and the warmth of the people. ​ The meeting with Justine’s brother and his friend sparks a new interest in the narrator.

• The family arrives at Montego Bay and is greeted by warm, fragrant air and beautiful scenery.
• The narrator meets Justine’s brother Balthazar and his friend Mountolive, who are charming and friendly. ​
• The narrator feels an instant attraction to both boys, marking a significant moment of self-discovery.

Exploring New Relationships and Opportunities

The narrator expresses a desire to spend time with Balthazar and Mountolive, indicating a budding interest in exploring friendships and potential romantic feelings.

• The narrator is eager to help Balthazar and Mountolive search for a lost ring at Mr. Rose’s estate. ​
• Justine encourages the narrator to connect with the boys, highlighting their charm and appeal.
• The narrator reflects on the freedom of expression and emotions in Jamaica compared to the constraints of his upbringing.

Reflections on Personal Growth and Identity

The narrator contemplates their feelings and the societal norms surrounding relationships, recognizing the importance of self-acceptance and personal exploration.

• The narrator acknowledges the challenges of expressing emotions in a conservative society.
• They aspire to navigate their feelings with decorum and respect, avoiding embarrassment. ​
• The narrator embraces the idea of living authentically and pursuing their desires while on vacation.

Adventures in Jamaica with Friends

The narrative recounts a young boy’s thrilling experiences during a vacation in Jamaica, highlighting friendships, adventures, and memorable encounters. The story captures the essence of youth, exploration, and the beauty of the island.

• The protagonist enjoys independence during his vacation, allowed by his parents to explore Jamaica freely. ​
• He forms friendships with local boys, including Mountolive, and meets Clea, the caretaker’s sister.
• The protagonist participates in scuba diving adventures, encountering sharks and experiencing the thrill of the ocean.
• He engages in various activities, including kayaking with friends and attending a wedding at Mr. Rose’s estate.

The Search for Mr. Rose’s Keepsake Ring ​

The protagonist becomes involved in a quest to find a lost ring belonging to Mr. Rose, which leads to unexpected adventures and challenges. This search intertwines with the protagonist’s experiences on the island.

• Mr. Rose, a prominent figure, loses a keepsake ring, prompting the protagonist to volunteer for the search. ​
• The protagonist discovers a garnet ring during a tennis match but learns it is not the lost keepsake.
• He and his friend Montolive encounter trouble with two suspicious delivery men who demand the ring they found.
• The protagonist ultimately finds a ring that resembles Mr. Rose’s lost keepsake, leading to a heartwarming conclusion.

Memorable Encounters with Celebrities

The protagonist’s vacation is enriched by encounters with famous personalities, adding excitement and glamour to his experiences. These interactions highlight the allure of celebrity culture during the 1960s.

• The protagonist meets various celebrities, including Ian Fleming and Noel Coward, during Mr. Rose’s wedding.
• He shares a memorable moment with Harry Belafonte, who is present at the hotel.
• The protagonist’s friends, including Jean-Louis and Eloise, also have connections to the celebrity world.
• These encounters create lasting memories and enhance the protagonist’s sense of adventure.

Reflections on Youth and Friendship

The story emphasizes the importance of friendship and the carefree nature of youth, showcasing the bonds formed during the vacation. The protagonist cherishes these relationships and the experiences shared.

• The protagonist reflects on the friendships made during the trip, including those with Clea, Justine, and Barb.
• He expresses gratitude for the experiences shared with his friends, highlighting the joy of youth.
• The narrative concludes with a sense of nostalgia, as the protagonist looks back on his time in Jamaica. ​
• The friendships formed during this vacation are portrayed as lasting and significant, shaping the protagonist’s memories.