Nineteenth century Europe an audacious American Black woman decided she wants to become and artists and moves Europe.
Igiaba Scego Books
Igiaba Scego is an Italian writer, journalist, and activist of Somali origin whose works delve into the intricate dialogues between cultures and the experiences of migration. Through her writing, she masterfully weaves autobiographical elements with a profound exploration of cultural exchange and identity. Scego serves as a vital voice for young people of African descent in Italy, sharing their stories of integration, relationships, and aspirations. Her unique perspective and compelling style enrich the literary landscape with essential themes.
The Color Line
- 544 pages
- 20 hours of reading
The novel explores the intertwined lives of two Black female artists across a century, highlighting their experiences as outsiders in Italy. Lafanu Brown, a 19th-century painter, defies societal norms amid the struggles of post-Civil War America, sharing her story with her fiancé. In contrast, a contemporary Somali-Italian art curator seeks to help her cousin escape a perilous journey to Italy while organizing an exhibition that connects their lives. Through these narratives, the book powerfully examines themes of identity, belonging, and the challenges faced by Black women in foreign lands.
Set in Italy and spanning the years from before World War II to the present day, Adua is the unforgettable story of a father and daughter grappling with the implications of colonialism, immigration and racism that have bisected both of their lives.