The main social concern, a topic touched on only lightly in Metalious' previous novels, is that of ethnic assimilation. The focus in this novel is on French-speaking Canadians who migrate to the United States in search of greater economic opportunities but instead find prejudice and exploitation.

The social strata take on an additional layer in this novel, for the characters must not only overcome the usual economic and social barriers but also race prejudice as well. The novel follows several generations of a family in their migration from Canada through their entry into American society, albeit on the lower rungs.

A great deal of the recent critical commentary on Metalious has focused on her place as an American writer of French-Canadian heritage. The focus of many of these articles has been on the changes in the traditional French culture brought to this country by immigrating families...