Black Dove, White Raven

Black Dove, White Raven—a stunt-pilot show unlike any other at the time. It’s the late 1920s and the “Black Dove, White Raven” stunt show has just tragically ended with the death of Delia Dupre, the Black Dove. Left with her daughter, Emilia, and her best friend’s son, Teodros, Rhoda Menotti takes her broken family to Ethiopia, following Delia’s dream. Black Dove, White Raven follows the story of Emilia (Em) and Teodros (Teo) once they arrive in Ethiopia. Arriving in what they believed to be a safe haven for a family unwelcome in 1930s America, Em, Teo, and Rhoda soon learn the difference between the dream of Ethiopia and the harsh reality. Set during the Second Italo-Ethiopian War, this coming-of-age novel spins a new perspective of history and adventure.

At first glance, Black Dove, White Raven appears to be a story about the struggles of race during the early twentieth century. However, this novel quickly transcends initial appearances and transforms into a story about the power of family and loyalties during war. Written in first person, the voices of Em and Teo speak of true emotion and the adventure of growing up.