The Sky is Black Today

An uncompromising tale of rootlessness, alienation and loss

Curaçao, the late nineties. Arthur Poolman has started as a teacher in a local high school. His expectations are high: in Curaçao he will finally detach himself from his roots - though he struggles to get a grip on the harsh atmosphere on the island. He falls under the influence of the mysterious and rebellious Ralph Veerman, rushing with him to the dark corners of the island. At the same time, it is hard to keep The Netherlands out: his father isn't doing too well, although he's been trying to hide this from his son.

On a sweltering Curaçao, Arthur seeks redemption in Antillean literature, the women of Campo Alegre and alcohol. On the dark day of the eclipse in 1998, he searches for light: on the top of Mount Christoffel he finally comes loose.