Political scientists and social choice theorists often assume that economic diversification within a group produces divergent political beliefs and behaviors. Michael Dawson demonstrates, however, that the growth of a black middle class has left race as the dominant influence on African- American politics. Why have African Americans remained so united in most of their political attitudes? To account for this phenomenon, Dawson develops a new theory of group interests that emphasizes perceptions of "linked fates" and black economic subordination.

Jacky is a translator. He’s a bit of an eccentric. And he can’t quite understand why the alluring and beautiful girl at the bar wants to talk to him. Even more perplexing is the tattered book she carries with her but won’t let him touch. Written in an indecipherable language—even for him—it contains, quite impossibly, what appear to be photographs of her own murder. When she disappears hours later and the book comes into his possession, suspicion falls on him. Pursued by the police and armed with nothing but the book she has left behind, an unwavering determination, and the assistance of the world’s most annoying man, Jacky must race through Paris to solve the mystery and find the missing girl. A wholly original, comical tale of intrigue, betrayal and romance, this is the curious story of the world’s most enigmatic book.

A novel about the recession generation and a young couple who turn to drug trafficking to make it through.

This comprehensive analysis of the complex relationship of black political thought identifies which political ideologies are supported by blacks, then traces their historical roots and examines their effects on black public opinion.