Here are some books by Black authors, poets and editors that we think everyone should read this February, and all year long!
Jubilee by Margaret Walker
"Jubilee" by Margaret Walker is a sweeping historical novel that follows the journey of Vyry, a resilient African-American woman born into slavery, as she navigates through the tumultuous events of the Civil War and Reconstruction era while striving for freedom and dignity.
Fences by August Wilson
"Fences" by August Wilson is a poignant exploration of the complexities of race, family, and personal aspirations in 1950s Pittsburgh, revolving around the character of Troy Maxson as he grapples with his past, present responsibilities, and his dreams.
Drowning Boys Guide to Water by Cameron Barnett
"Drowning Boy's Guide to Water" by Cameron Barnett explores the complexities of identity, race, and survival through vivid and introspective poetry.
Black Women Writers at Work edited by Claudia Tate
"Black Women Writers at Work," edited by Claudia Tate, offers intimate insights into the creative processes, struggles, and triumphs of influential black women authors through illuminating interviews.
The Prophets by Robert Jones Jr.
"The Prophets" by Robert Jones Jr. is a powerful and haunting novel that delves into the forbidden love between two enslaved men on a Southern plantation, weaving together themes of resilience, faith, and the enduring search for freedom amidst oppression.
The People Could Fly told by Virginia Hamilton
"The People Could Fly" by Virginia Hamilton is a captivating collection of African American folktales, celebrating the resilience, magic, and spirit of enslaved people who possess the ability to transcend their hardships through the power of flight and storytelling.
Create Dangerously by Edwidge Danicat
"Create Dangerously" by Edwidge Danticat is a poignant exploration of the role of the artist in society, intertwining personal narratives with reflections on Haitian history and culture to advocate for the transformative power of art in the face of oppression and adversity.
The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory
"The Proposal" by Jasmine Guillory is a charming and contemporary romance novel that follows the unexpected love story between a freelance writer and a pediatrician, navigating the complexities of modern dating and relationships with humor, heart, and diverse representation.
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
"Brown Girl Dreaming" by Jacqueline Woodson is a poignant and lyrical memoir written in verse, chronicling the author's journey of self-discovery, family, and finding her voice as a young African American girl growing up in the 1960s and 1970s.
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
"Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" by Mildred D. Taylor is a powerful coming-of-age story set in the racially-charged atmosphere of the Southern United States during the Great Depression, following young Cassie Logan as she navigates prejudice, injustice, and the strength of family bonds in her quest for equality and dignity.