This book investigates the complex relationship between Canada and the United States by examining the experiences and motivations of Canadians who have chosen to relocate south of the border. Jeffrey Simpson, a veteran political journalist, utilizes a combination of sociological inquiry and personal narrative to challenge the common Canadian assumption that they possess a superior understanding of American society. He argues that the migration of Canadians to the United States reveals significant structural and cultural differences that are often overlooked in domestic Canadian discourse.

The text provides a focused, journalistic examination of the cross-border migration phenomenon, offering a clear-eyed look at the motivations of those who leave Canada for the United States. Its analytical approach serves as a useful resource for understanding the practical realities of the North American relationship beyond common national stereotypes.