KINGSTON, Jamaica — Emerging author Onecia Gayle officially launched her debut novel, Cream of the Crop: The Boy, A Dream and A Jamaican Legend, on Saturday, June 27, during an event at the National Gallery of Jamaica, unveiling a historical fiction work that reimagines the life and legacy of Jamaica’s first Black millionaire, George Stiebel.

The launch, supported by Worthy Park Estate, marked the culmination of nearly two years of research, writing and self-publishing by Gayle, who is also known as “The Jamaican Pencil Chef.” The novel combines history with a time-travelling adventure in an effort to introduce younger readers to one of Jamaica’s most influential historical figures.

Jamaican Pencil Chef and author of Cream of the Crop: The Boy, A Dream and A Jamaican Legend shares a moment with the audience during her book launch on June 20 at the National Gallery of Jamaica.