The Quaint Companions With an Introduction by H. G. Wells

"The Quaint Companions" by Leonard Merrick is a story that looks at race, love, and what society expects from people through the lives of its main characters. The novel will explore the lives of Elisha Lee, a talented African American singer, and Ownie Tremlett, a white woman who likes him. The book begins with Lee thinking about his life after a performance and remembering when he had a crush on Ownie. It then goes on to show the challenges surrounding his artistic life, highlighting his dreams, insecurities, and how he deals with racism. As Lee thinks about Ownie and his life, the novel begins talking about themes of identity and how prejudice affects personal relationships.