7 Books by Black Authors You Should Be Reading

Today is Juneteenth – the perfect time to underscore the importance of seeking out and amplifying Black creatives and voices. By engaging with the work of BIPOC we expand our understanding of the Black experience, challenge our perspectives, and show up to support the community. And of course, we also get to enjoy some excellent content.

Read ahead for a curated list of Black-authored books that will get you thinking and provide insightful perspectives on history, society and life.

“On Juneteenth” by Annette Gordon-Reed

“On Juneteenth” is a captivating memoir that combines personal reflections, historical analysis and cultural exploration to provide a thought-provoking account of Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. In this slim yet powerful book, Gordon-Reed weaves together her own experiences growing up in Texas with a broader examination of the significance of Juneteenth in American history.

The memoir explores the complex legacy of Juneteenth, tracing its origins and evolution from its roots in Galveston, Texas, to its recognition as a day of remembrance and celebration across the country. Gordon-Reed skillfully delves into the historical context surrounding the holiday, reflecting on the enduring impact of slavery and the ongoing struggle for racial equality in America.

Gordon-Reed shares intimate stories of her family’s experiences, revealing the intergenerational trauma and resilience that have shaped her own identity. Her reflections serve as a bridge between past and present, offering readers a deeper understanding of the lasting effects of slavery and the ongoing fight for justice.

“On Juneteenth” serves as a reminder of the importance of historical memory and the power of commemorating significant moments in the struggle for freedom and equality.

“Beloved” by Toni Morrison

“Beloved” by Toni Morrison is a powerful and haunting novel that delves deep into the devastating legacy of slavery and its impact on the lives of individuals and communities. Set in the aftermath of the American Civil War, the story follows Sethe, a former slave who escaped to Ohio but is haunted by her past.

One of the novel’s central themes is that the past cannot be escaped or forgotten, and its ghosts continue to shape the present. Morrison's exquisite prose weaves the past and the present, blurring the boundaries of time and creating a lyrical and challenging narrative.

“Beloved” is a multilayered narrative that delves into the African American experience, exploring themes of memory, identity, trauma and the resilience of the human spirit. Through her skillful storytelling, Morrison highlights the importance of confronting and acknowledging the past, no matter how painful, to heal and move forward.

“Americanah” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

“Americanah” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a captivating and thought-provoking novel exploring race, identity and cultural displacement themes.

The story follows Ifemelu, a young Nigerian woman who leaves her home country to pursue higher education in the United States, while her childhood sweetheart, Obinze, seeks his path in England. Through their separate experiences and eventual reunion, Adichie examines the complexities of navigating race and culture in both American and Nigerian societies.

At its core, “Americanah” is a profound exploration of the immigrant experience and the challenges faced by individuals in adapting to a new culture while preserving their own identity. Adichie skillfully delves into the nuances of race and the social dynamics that shape one's perception and treatment in different societies.

The novel also explores the idea of home and belonging. Ifemelu grapples with a sense of displacement and a longing for her native Nigeria, even as she finds success and love in America.

“The Fire Next Time” by James Baldwin

Composed of two essays, “My Dungeon Shook: Letter to My Nephew on the One-Hundredth Anniversary of Emancipation” and "Down at the Cross: Letter from a Region of My Mind,” this book confronts the racial divisions and injustices that plagued American society in the mid-20th century.

In the first essay, addressed to his nephew, Baldwin reflects on the experiences of Black people in America and implores his young relative to maintain his dignity and self-worth in the face of pervasive racism. In the second essay, “Down at the Cross,” Baldwin provides a deeply personal and introspective examination of his own experiences as a Black man growing up in Harlem.

Baldwin’s unflinching analysis of racism, injustice and the need for social change remains relevant, as the book serves as a call to action for a more inclusive and equitable society. Baldwin’s ability to blend personal narrative with political and social commentary makes “The Fire Next Time” a seminal work in the canon of African-American literature.

“Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates

“Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates is a profound and deeply personal exploration of race in America. Written as a letter to his teenage son, the book reflects on Coates’s experiences as a Black man and offers a searing indictment of the systemic racism that persists in the United States.

Coates’s writing is raw, honest and unapologetic. He eloquently articulates the fear, anger and frustration that come with living in a society where Black bodies are constantly under threat. He challenges the notion of the American Dream, exposing it as a myth that is inaccessible to many Black individuals because of the structural barriers and institutionalized violence they face.

“Between the World and Me” has become a cultural touchstone and sparked important conversations about race, privilege and the urgent need for social change. Coates’s work serves as a rallying cry for justice and equality, reminding us of the ongoing struggle for racial liberation and the responsibility we all bear in dismantling oppressive systems.

“A Bound Woman Is a Dangerous Woman” by Name DaMaris B. Hill

This poignant and powerful collection of poetry pays homage to the resilience and strength of Black women throughout history. Drawing inspiration from the words of historical figures, such as Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth and Rosa Parks, DaMaris B. Hill weaves together a tapestry of voices that confront and challenge the oppressive systems that have confined and silenced Black women.

Through her lyrical poetry, Hill delves into the experiences of enslaved women, civil rights activists, and contemporary black women, highlighting their struggles, triumphs, and unwavering determination to assert their humanity. The title itself, “A Bound Woman Is a Dangerous Thing,” encapsulates the central theme of the collection: the subversive power and resilience of Black women who have defied societal constraints and fought for their freedom.

Hill skillfully combines historical accounts, personal narratives and mythological references to create a multi-dimensional, richly layered exploration of Black womanhood. Each poem carries a distinct voice and perspective, offering a diverse range of stories and experiences that collectively amplify the strength and resilience of Black women across generations.

“So You Want to Talk About Race” by Ijeoma Oluo

“So You Want to Talk About Race” by Ijeoma Oluo is an essential and timely book that provides a compassionate guide to navigating conversations about race in America. Oluo tackles complex and sensitive topics head-on, offering readers practical tools and insights to engage in meaningful discussions and work toward racial understanding and justice.

The book is structured around a series of concise and informative chapters that address a range of key issues related to race, including privilege, police brutality, cultural appropriation and microaggressions. Oluo combines personal anecdotes, historical context and research to shed light on these topics, inviting readers to critically examine their own beliefs and assumptions.

“So You Want to Talk About Race” is a vital resource for individuals seeking to educate themselves and actively participate in dismantling racial inequality. It has become a go-to guide for educators, activists and anyone committed to understanding and addressing racial injustice. Oluo’s book invites readers to move beyond surface-level conversations and take concrete steps toward a more equitable and inclusive society.