The book is a collection of rich, insightful analyses by a team of distinguished scholars from around the world providing valuable international, comparative and interdisciplinary perspectives on the most salient issues and challenges of the Caribbean. Conceptualized along the lines of four interrelated rubrics notably, the Caribbean in the international system, economic development and politics, socio-cultural issues, and crime and security in the region the book brings to light emerging themes that are vitally in need of attention in order to position the region on proper coordinates for a progressive and informed future. Some key questions addressed are: How vital is the Caribbean in global affairs today? What is the role of China, India, and the West, respectively, in the Caribbean? What are the social dynamics of ethnic identity for people of East Indian descent in the Caribbean? How has globalization impacted on gender identities/relations? What role do crime and violence play in the contemporary Caribbean? Certainly, the book is of value to under- and post-graduate students of the social sciences, humanities and area studies, not only to get a glimpse but also to gain newer insights on the Caribbean. It will also appeal to the general reader seeking fresh perspectives and updates on the different dimensions and issues of the region.