This volume investigates the multifaceted construction of Britishness through the lens of migrant journeys and their historical and cultural representations. Tony Kushner, drawing on extensive historical and literary analysis, examines how migration has shaped national identity from the early modern period to the present day. The book scrutinizes the interplay between political discourse, public perception, and artistic expressions, offering a nuanced understanding of how 'Britishness' has been conceived and contested over centuries. It seeks to illuminate the enduring impact of migrant experiences on the nation's self-definition.

The book is recognized for its comprehensive approach to understanding British identity through the lens of migration. Scholars note its detailed examination of both historical events and their cultural reverberations, highlighting the author's ability to synthesize political, social, and artistic dimensions. The work is considered a significant contribution to the study of national identity and the historical impact of migration on the United Kingdom. Its analysis is praised for shedding new light on the complex and evolving nature of 'Britishness'.