A Beautiful Sunrise tells the compelling story of Abi and her struggle to rise above the challenges of her native home in Apo Kingdom and pursue higher education. Abi is a strong-willed, beautiful young woman, who is fortunate to have a father who supports her education and cares deeply for her.

As a young woman, Abi marries the love of her life, her relationship with Ijachi is turbulent. Family pressure dictates that only sons would carry on his legacy, leading Ijachi to take on additional wives. Abi navigates the complexities of her marriage while raising their children and continues to pursue her education despite resistance from her husband and his family.

When Abi finds herself immersed in a new culture and inspired by opportunities to advocate for women like herself, she finds the courage to face the reality of her failing marriage and wonders whether she can embrace a new, promising relationship.

Bernadette Gage is a lifelong learner who is passionate about education. However, growing up in Nigeria opened her eyes to issues of gender inequalities that were pervasive even in education. She writes this debut novel about the value of education and the need to be inclusive of female children around the globe. She employs the power of story while often interjecting her humor and wit to draw attention to serious societal issues affecting young women. She hopes this story will inspire more people to ensure that young girls have equal chances at good quality education.
Years ago, she graduated from the University of Jos in Nigeria, then earned a master’s degree from George Washington University and a PhD from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. Recently, she earned a certificate in Media and Medicine from Harvard University and is currently part of a cohort undertaking a Business Leadership program at Stanford University.
Presently, she lives in the United States and is married. In her spare time, she enjoys watching comedies and traveling with her husband.