Post Details

Cedar Hill High School (CHHS) 2016 graduate Raven 'Rae Violet' Jordan has built a career as a respected journalist, writer and blogger. Now, she can add published author to that list.

Now, the Cedar Hill resident has another title to add to her resume — published author.

Jordan recently published a book of poetry titled "Last Night's Mascara," highlighting her personal journey through modern adulthood.

She first became interested in poetry while completing her bachelor's degree in Digital and Print Journalism at the University of North Texas in Denton. The book comprises 58 poems.

"The poems range in topics from figuring out identity, family life, love, romance, heartbreak, the economy and race," Jordan said. "I've enjoyed poetry since I was in college. I tried to do open mic nights in college, but there weren't any available, so I had to find other opportunities to share my creative voice."

Jordan grew up in Cedar Hill, attending Highlands Elementary School, Belt Line Intermediate School and Permenter Middle School before CHHS. In high school, she was involved with the journalism club, art club, anime club and the cross-country team.

She credits her time at CHHS with preparing her as a writer, both through journalism and English classes.

During college, Jordan wrote for the North Texas Daily (UNT's student newspaper) and contributed to the Denton Record-Chronicle. She also completed an internship with the Dallas Observer.

Upon graduating from UNT in 2021, Jordan started "Raven Writes DFW," a blog that covers everything from arts and culture to restaurants and sports.

"I use my experience to write about all things digital, including art festivals, book fairs and book festivals," Jordan said.

Jordan is currently working on a second book of poems, as well as her first book of short stories. She hopes to write a full-length novel at some point.