25 Must-Read Books by Black Authors
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Loading... - Georgina Kane
- 08 Feb 2023
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Romance, memoir, sci-fi, poetry and more round out this list.
Many of us don't choose our books by the author alone. Sure, there are some that are just can't-miss (here's looking at you, Jasmine Guillory). But most of us instead look for genres we like, storylines that intrigue us or even pretty cover art. That said, it's important to consider who's behind the books we love. According to one analysis reported by PEN America, 95% of American fiction books published between 1950 and 2018 were written by white people. The publishing industry itself isn't much better. And while some shifts have been made since 2020, there's a lot of work yet to be done to ensure that the books that make it onto our shelves, and the people who help put them there, look like the readers who need them.
By reading books that represent a more diverse array of authors, we bookworms can help make a difference. “What speaks loudest in this business and in any business are dollars,” Ibrahim Ahmad, former editorial director of the Akashic Books told PEN. “When publishers see that writers of color can sell huge quantities of books, they will invest in those books.” We already know that reading broadens our perspectives, enriches our lives and exercises our minds, but it's also just plain fun.
These are a few of our favorite books by Black authors that showcase a range of experiences and perspectives. And they're not solely books about racism, Black history or trauma because, while those matter, Black joy does too, and it's important we celebrate it.
If your favorite isn't here, let us know in the comments — maybe you'll help someone else find a new TBR too.
You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty by Akwaeke Emezi
This sharply original novel about love, friendship and grief will ring true for so many of us these days. Five years after losing the love of her life, Feyi's BFF, Joy, wants her to get back on the horse. But when she does, Feyi ends up with more than she bargained for. No matter what the weather's like, this one will warm you up.
Stories from the Tenants Downstairs by Sidik Fofana
Gentrification looms large for the residents of the Banneker Homes, a Harlem high rise and a vibrant community. You'll find yourself chuckling, tearing up and shaking your head along with the vividly painted characters in these stunning interwoven stories. Read More…
