by Maryse Conde

When he opposes French colonialism in his native Africa, regal Behanzin is exiled to the far-off island of Martinique. In the course of her novel, renowned author Maryse Conde tells the story of Behanzin's scattered offspring and their lives in the Caribbean and the United States. She skillfully intertwines themes of exile, lost origins, and hope--with Africa hovering in the background.