Three Years in Ethiopia: How a Civil War and Epidemics Led Me to My Daughter

by Cornelia E. Davis

IndieReader Approved: 4.7 out of 5 Rating2019 B.R.A.G. Medallion AwardSemi-Finalist, 2019 Kindle Book Award. Sent by the World Health Organization to assist the Ethiopian government in preventing meningitis outbreaks in 1990, Dr. Cornelia Davis eagerly accepted this posting. She headed to Addis Ababa, unaware of an obscure war that had gone on for two decades. The doctor had an ulterior motive — she wanted to adopt an infant girl. While providing expert assistance to control epidemics in several countries, Connie submitted her adoption application. Rebels captured previous strongholds of the Ethiopian government and the Prime Minister fled. Connie was left in charge of the WHO EPR Unit. The airport closed and the rebels entered the capital. In the midst of this chaos, Davis was approved to look for an orphan. You’ll be on the edge of your seat as you read about the explosive series of events which destroyed Connie’s house and led her to an infant girl found on the steps of St. George Cathedral. One look, and Connie knew she had found her daughter. Five days later, she was ordered by WHO to evacuate to Geneva. But not without her daughter!

230 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 12, 2019

Reviews

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fascinating and engaging memoir written by an epidemiologist working for WHO during the Ethiopian Civil War back in the early 90's. I found the story of her work and the politics and culture of that region a real eye-opener to someone who has not ventured so far afield. On top of there very challenging work, she was driven and determined to adopt a baby girl, to be a mother, but also to save that child from the custom of female circumcision. She accounts for just these 3 years of a professional and personal life that is so unique and fascinating. I was wishing to learn more about this career path, one on which I had no perspective prior to reading her memoir. It is well written, kept me flipping pages and wanting more!! Thank you, Connie for sharing this piece of your life. I applaud your dedication to the eradication of diseases in Africa. What a career choice!

[Fred Fanning · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a compelling book about the real-life experiences of the American author living and working abroad. The story is real and provides insights into the author's experience during very difficult and dangerous times. I liked the book and found it entertaining. I think others will too.

[gj indieBRAG · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are proud to announce that THREE YEARS IN ETHIOPIA: How a Civil War and Epidemics Led Me to My Daughter by Cornelia E. Davis is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells readers that this book is well worth their time and money!