The Travels of the Black Raven

About the Book

Matthew, a sophomore at Humboldt State University, wants to study abroad. He currently excels in his studies, and he feels it’s time to leave the country. He one day runs to the study-abroad office on campus and asks if his school has a program for Japan. Unfortunately, the school has no program to go to the country, but they recommend him to a language program in China. Seeking freedom from boredom, Matthew, a young American college student, decides to embark on the trip of a lifetime to Xi’an. There, he has the task of learning one of the world’s most difficult languages, Mandarin Chinese. Xi’an, home to some of China’s most notable dynasties, is enriched with culture and beauty. Matthew’s goal is to endure this language-intensive program and then flee to Japan. Before he can do this, he has to endure six months of living in Communist China. Matthew has no knowledge of China, and more importantly, he still is in the crossroad of finding his destiny. Born and raised in South Central Los Angeles, Matthew enters China innocent and unprepared. Having a history of poor academics, his goal is to discover the art of studying and learning. Matthew leaves home, unaware of the characters he will meet and the inspiration he will gain. Matthew is in for an eye-opening experience from one of the world’s greatest civilizations.

About the Author

Matthew Quaine Thompkins, preferably Quaine, is from Los Angeles, California. He is a Humboldt State University graduate in which he majored in international studies business and Chinese. Quaine enjoys traveling and has a major interest in East Asian cultures. On his spare time, Quaine does calligraphy, read books, draw, and engages in innovative projects. His ultimate dream is to start a research lab, which enables people from all walks of life to invent their ideas. You can follow Quaine via Twitter @MatthewQuaine or Facebook.