The body of Jamaican children's literature which exists today originated with the oral tradition of folktales that evolved over time. Many Jamaican folktales are based on stories of survival. They were shaped by the culture and history of those who lived through re- and dislocation from Africa, brought to the Caribbean, sold into slavery, and established themselves under British colonial rule in Jamaica. Tales of oral tradition in Jamaica often evolve around overcoming poverty, oppressive power structures, race and class struggles, and surviving the hurdles of life in society.

As young girls growing up in rural Jamaica, West Indies, our experiences with positive character development began in our homes. Our parents took the Bible's admonition in Deuteronomy 6 verses 6 and 7 literally: parents were responsible for inculcating biblical principles on their children's minds and hearts.