A collection of short stories explores the diverse lives of Chicano men and women in contemporary America. The narratives shift between various characters, including border workers, academics, divorced women, and traveling salesmen, offering a multifaceted view of their experiences. The stories are presented in a bilingual format, reflecting the cultural landscape of the U.S. Southwest. The collection delves into the challenges and resilience of individuals navigating modern life.

The stories in this bilingual collection offer a cross-section of Chicano men and women in the contemporary U.S., as noted by the book jacket. The narrative perspective changes from story to story, presenting a diverse array of characters including workers, battered wives, farmworkers, divorced women, a traveling salesman, and academics. The collection is noted for its portrayal of individuals living in the chaparral around the San Diego border with Mexico. The book jacket highlights the varied lives and experiences depicted within its pages.