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The Best of Literature: Books by Black Authors
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items As a reader, writer, and author, I am constantly looking to expand my bookshelf into new territory. This is a list of incredibly influential books by Black authors that changed my understanding of systemic racism, generational trauma, and perseveranc...
Sections
2
Fiction
Non-fiction
Fiction
Top 3 books of all time for me. “Passing” sparks one of the most interesting conversations about race. Set in the 1920s, this novella covers everything from black identity to homosexuality to patriarchy. It's perfect.
Passing
Toni Morrison didn't win the Nobel Prize for nothing. While I love all her books, “Tar Baby” is especially lovely - her characterization of an entire island, down to a singular avocado tree, redefines writing.
Tar Baby
If you love “Passing” half as much as I do, you'll adore this. Another book about hiding one's racial identity for societal acceptance.
The Vanishing Half
Haunting book about the psychological effects of slavery on African Americans. It's so well written, you just can't stop reading
Beloved (Pulitzer Prize Winner)
Like “Beloved” in that depicts the effects of slavery on Black communities, except adds a science fiction twist. The story's conflict is complex, horrific, and expertly written.
Kindred
Love that this is a feminist book. Depicts a Black woman in the South during times of extreme racism as she overcomes struggle after struggle to find personal empowerment
The Color Purple (Pulitzer Prize Winner)
Depicts a man living in extreme poverty who falls victim to the racism inherent in America's criminal justice system. Devastating read, yet so important
Native Son
Will rip your heart out. It's about a Black girl in the South who wants to be loved by a family that fails to do just that. Also emphasizes the dangers of forcing Western beauty standards onto women of color
The Bluest Eye
While this is a children's book, I find it enjoyable for all ages. Tells the story of an orphan who seeks out his father, a jazz musician, to experience family
Bud, Not Buddy (Newbery Medal Winner)
Very much a “cycle of life” story that also shows the fall of an era (aka the imperialist takeover of Africa).
Things Fall Apart
Non-fiction
An autobiography about Angelou's childhood. Best real-life depiction of resilience and internal strength
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
Explores the Great Migration and its influence on US history. A superb account of belonging and culture
The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration
Michelle Obama may be one of the most accomplished women in the US. From Harvard law to First Lady, her life is full of successes and immense struggles. Such an inspiring woman
Becoming
A brilliant analysis of how America's racial history resembles caste systems worldwide, rooted in deep evidence.
Caste (Adapted for Young Adults)
I am constantly inspired by this book. The author's ability to go above and beyond in her educational pursuits, making it all the way to the White House, is astounding. From the Deep South to Washington D.C.
Extraordinary, Ordinary People: A Memoir of Family
Describes Angelou's own experiences with motherhood and career progression.
The Heart of a Woman
Chronicles the history of overlooked and underappreciated Black artists! If you love Black history and art history, this is a perfect combo of the two.
BLK ART: The Audacious Legacy of Black Artists and Models in Western Art
Imo, this is one of the most essential glimpses into the struggles of enslaved people. While Douglass's account is quite sad, it is a testament to human nature and endurance.
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass