In The promise of the dawn, Romain Gary recounts his past not as he lived it but as he perceives it retrospectively in light of what he has become. The author recounts with humour and gravity his experience of historical and personal events. His life begins with a childhood split between Russia, Poland and Nice where luxury and poverty were both experienced. His life includes hard aviation training and adventures in France, England and Africa. Every moment is filled with Nina’s infinite love and a mother’s love for her son.