"There is an abundant humor to this book and pathos; there is melodrama and the quiet charm of introspective analysis, and above all there is entertainment."--Saturday Review

A novel of love and war, from the author of Home to Harlem

Bita Plant is adopted and sent to England from Jamaica by white missionary benefactors and returns to her home village of Banana Bottom seven years later a beautiful, cultured young lady. Despite the evangelical guidance of her foster parents and friendship with a white squire, Bita is increasingly drawn to the vitality of her more natural culture with its festivals, superstitions, revival meetings, and passionate courtships. Among her many suitors she chooses to marry the quiet, humble man who allows her to be most true to herself.