This book examines the intersection of Caribbean immigrant identity and literary expression in the works of Claude McKay and Paule Marshall. Hathaway's analysis delves into how the experiences of migration, racial affiliation, and assimilation in America shape the complex identities of these prominent African Caribbean authors, challenging their traditional placement solely within African American literary studies.

The book is recognized for its insightful comparative analysis of Claude McKay and Paule Marshall, highlighting the crucial influence of their Caribbean immigrant backgrounds on their literary output. It probes the complexities of displacement and identity formation inherent in the migratory experience. The work is noted for its examination of how forces such as racial affiliation and assimilation shape unique, often hyphenated, identities. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of African Caribbean voices within the broader context of American literature.