This book investigates the persistent presence of low-skilled immigrants in the contemporary American economy, despite the nation's increasing reliance on high-skilled labor. Waldinger and Lichter examine the complex factors that sustain the employment of unskilled immigrants, focusing on Los Angeles as a case study. They argue that employers seek specific individuals to fill undesirable but essential jobs that native-born workers often avoid, revealing a nuanced dynamic in the modern labor market.

The book offers a focused examination of the economic and social forces driving immigration patterns in the United States. It is noted for its detailed analysis of labor market dynamics, particularly in Los Angeles, and its argument regarding employer strategies for filling essential but undesirable jobs. The work provides a critical perspective on the role of unskilled labor within a high-tech economy. Its findings contribute to ongoing discussions about immigration policy and the structure of the modern workforce.