Black Doves Fly to Freedom: A Book of Poems Concerning History, Struggle, and Progress (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781636764931)

FROM AWARD-WINNING POET ERICA STEPHENS comes an unforgettable poetry collection that takes us through time to explore African-American history and achievements from beginnings in Africa to present day. Black Doves Fly to Freedom: A Book of Poems Concerning History, Struggle, and Progress is a project inspired by recurring struggles to understand and take in negative portrayals of Blackness, a personal search for identity, and a lifetime's journey as a Black woman.

Riveting, informative, and uplifting are just a few words to describe the moments depicted throughout. Stephens guides readers through through history with poems like:

• "Rainy Mornings in July," a poem on the Middle Passage
• "Death By Me," an emotional retelling of the Igbo Landing
• "Dear Black People of America," a love poem to the community

Black Doves Fly to Freedom is a personal piece dedicated to the search for identity and peace in a world that seems unforgiving and suffocating at times. Her writing tackles subjects such as mental health, women's health, violence, judicial policy, racism, and colorism through a balanced display of beauty and pain. Each poem takes time to honor the legacy, languages, and beliefs of her ancestors and gifts readers with an experience crafted by her personal understanding and experience as a Black woman in search of peace, love, and healing.