America is a nation of immigrants. But what does it mean to be an immigrant in the U.S. today The 9/11 terrorist attacks and subsequent wars have produced an increasing national insularity that is eroding our long-held friendly melting pot attitude, and made many Americans suspicious of recent immigrants who hail almost exclusively from economically developing countries like Iraq, Iran, and Mexico, as well as many parts of Africa.

Having shared his own family’s story in My Fathers’ Houses, distinguished journalist Steven V. Roberts now profiles thirteen other immigrants from China, Afghanistan, Mexico, and Sierra Leone who have journeyed to our shores in pursuit of the same dream that propelled Roberts’ own grandfather a century ago. Roberts combines compelling interviews and meticulous research to produce an engaging, wonderfully clear and accessible narrative that explores each family’s story unique yet deeply resonant story. In so doing, Roberts captures the voices of those living the promise of a new land-and the difficulties of starting over among strangers whose suspicions increasingly outweigh their open-armed acceptance.

As the immigration debate rages on, Roberts offers an essential and timely look at today’s immigrants and sheds light on the enormous contributions they continue to make to the fabric and future of America.