The novel is a poignant story of a young Haitian girl's journey from her homeland to New York City. She is sent to live with her mother, whom she barely knows, at the age of twelve. The narrative explores the protagonist's struggle to understand her Haitian identity, her mother's traumatic past, and the cultural expectations placed upon her as a woman. It delves into themes of maternal relationships, female identity, sexual trauma, and the diasporic experience, painting a vivid picture of the protagonist's struggle to reconcile her past with her present.

"Brother, I'm Dying" is a memoir that explores the author's life growing up in Haiti, her immigration to the United States, and the lives of her father and uncle. The story delves into her father's struggle with illness in America, her uncle's experience as a pastor in Haiti during political turmoil, and his subsequent death in U.S. immigration custody. The book serves as a poignant exploration of family, immigration, love, and loss.

The novel centers around an elderly woman who, after a life of hard work and raising children, finds herself reluctantly placed in a nursing home by her daughter. The narrative explores the protagonist's struggle with the loss of independence and the cold, impersonal treatment she receives in the institution. Her longing for freedom and connection with her family and cultural roots leads her to escape the nursing home, embarking on a journey that reflects on themes of aging, autonomy, and the complexities of mother-daughter relationships. Through her experiences, the book delves into the broader social issues surrounding the care of the elderly in contemporary society.