At the crux, the narrative is about the immigrant experience particularly the clashing of two cultures that new migrants have to contend with. Emigrating from Haiti, Fabiola quickly learns that her new home in Detroit is not what she expected. Her relatives, akin to other migrants from either generation, have resolved to do what it takes to make ends meet. Caught in the middle of all this, she is confronted with tough decisions regarding her identity, loyalty, and family.
The story entails the common immigration issues from the onset with Fabiola’s mother being denied entry into the United States. Thrown into this unfamiliar environment, Fabiola has to struggle with aspects as simple as communication since English is her second language after Creole. She anticipates feeling more at ease around her aunt and cousins but quite the contrary, as they are as hypercritical as the rest. Her relatives have struck a balance between their Haitian and American identities which leans more towards the American culture. This inclination might be out of sheer societal pressure to fit in or the choice to make their experience easier.
Fabiola on the other hand has a difficult time assimilating since she is still deeply connected to her roots. Meanwhile, her focus is on securing her mother’s freedom hence less worried about impressing her relatives and friends.
The novel blends elements of magical realism, spirituality, and the immigrant experience drawing from the author’s life. As Publishers Weekly review reads, “Mixing gritty street life with the tenderness of first love, Haitian Vodou, and family bonds, the book is at once chilling, evocative, and reaffirming.” It also takes on the subjects of race and the American dream exploring the intersectionality in the lives of Haitian-Americans.
