This book takes its title from the homonymous novel by Nella Larsen who, during the Harlem Renaissance, posed the question of what it means to be black in a racist country. The practice of passing was in fact used by African Americans to escape discrimination during the time of segregation. Nella Larsen condemns this practice, but also shows its potential, defining it as 'not entirely strange perhaps . . . but certainly not entirely friendly.'

Anna Camaiti Hostert is distinguished visiting professor at Florida Atlantic University in the Department of Philosophy.