N.K. Jemisin discusses her growth as a science fiction writer, noting her determination to rise above a racist and sexist industry. She discusses the compilation of this volume and her hopes of using it to help envision a future for the black community. 

It’s the Day of Good Birds—a local holiday celebrated in Um-Helat, “a city where numberless aspirations can be fulfilled” and where “there is no hunger” or homelessness (1-2). On this day, children flap about and wear wings of varying materials constructed for them by either “parents or kind old aunties” (1). Some adults participate too, though their wings are sometimes “invisible” (2). Whether to fly or remain wingless is one of personal choice, and all choices are equally “honored” (2). In general, all possible careers in the town are highly regarded, but on the Day of Good Birds, farmers are especially celebrated. Those wearing wings “parade” through the city while those on the outskirts dance, cook, and make music (3).

A pervasive “joy” marks Um-Helat, which houses a citizenry who enjoy “long […] rich” lives (4). The citizens believe a city should do more than “generate revenue”; it should instead aim to “care for” all of its citizens (4-5).