Black Dove, White Raven originally
refers to Delia and Rhoda, a mixed-race pair of female barnstormers and aviation dare-devils
who perform during the 1920’s in Europe and in the United States. Their children, Teo,
whose father worked on Ethiopian government negotiations in Paris, and Emilia, whose father
is an Italian aviator, grow up closer than many brothers and sisters.
Black Dove White Raven is the best historical fiction yet from a very
talented author. In her distinctive style, Wein repeats several phrases (“we’re
in the soup together”) and motifs (squeezing hands to signify courage). She carefully lays the groundwork for this
story, explaining some of the dangers of early flight, open cockpits and
limited fuel range. The family moves to Africa after a fatal accident, hoping to avoid the discrimination they felt in America. Much of the story is told through flight logs and
flashbacks to student essays written by Teo and Emilia for the governess of a
wealthy family on a coffee cooperative in Ethiopia.
I enjoyed learning about the history
of Ethiopia, even though some was troubling and sad, as I read this unique
novel. Cameo appearances by actual historical figures such as Emperor Haile Selassie
and aviator activist John Robinson are cleverly incorporated and help to move
the plot forward. Actual events parallel many in The Adventures, a
series of comic book like renderings imaginatively created by a younger Black
Dove and White Raven, Teo and Emilia. Numerous twists, conflicting loyalties
and the threat of war all add to a feeling of tension and suspense throughout
the novel. If you have read the WWII era novels Code Name Verity or Rose Under Fire, by Wein, I am sure you are already eagerly anticipating the
publication of Black Dove White Raven.
If not, you have hours and hours of excellent reading
ahead -- a highly recommended journey you are sure to enjoy.
Starred Reviews from Publishers Weekly and School Library Journal.
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