The novel is an epic narrative that weaves together the history of Martinique from the time of slavery to the post-colonial era through the eyes of a resilient woman named Marie-Sophie Laborieux. The story unfolds as she recounts her life and the lives of her ancestors to a visiting urban planner, revealing the transformation of her homeland and the struggles of its people. The book blends Creole and French language, magical realism, and rich storytelling to paint a vivid picture of the island's cultural tapestry, the legacy of colonialism, and the enduring spirit of its inhabitants.