Donnelly emphasizes how Walker empowers marginalized communities, particularly Black women, by giving them a voice through her characters. Her stories tackle difficult subjects like domestic abuse, sexual assault, and the enduring legacy of slavery, giving visibility and agency to those often silenced.

The book explores Walker's understanding of the interconnected nature of oppression, showcasing how racism, sexism, and classism intersect and impact individuals' lives. Her work analyzes how these systems operate simultaneously, particularly in the lives of Black women.

Donnelly highlights how Walker's writing is deeply rooted in the Civil Rights Movement and the feminist movement of the 20th century. The book explains how these historical events, alongside Walker's own experiences with racism and sexism, inform her literary themes and provide a powerful backdrop for her narratives.