Structure

The book is divided into a prologue, four main sections and an epilogue. Each of the four main sections is divided into four chapters. The prologue functions to establish some of the thematic groundwork and motivations for the project as a whole. Jerkins discusses her desire to know more about her historical and genealogical roots as a Black American. These personal motivations are connected to the larger social and historical aspects of the book, as Jerkins seeks to explore the interconnectedness off Black communities and individuals through genealogy and shared culture/history.

Each of the four main sections focus on a different region of the country, with each region having various salient connections to Black history. The four regions include the Lowcountry (which covers parts of Georgia and South Carolina), Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Los Angeles. Each section also focuses on various forms of oppression that are applicable...