February is Black History Month and each year we like to honor Black businesses and entrepreneurs by sharing some of our favorites. There are so many ways to show your support during Black History Month, and of course all year long. Educate yourself about Black history by reading books, watching movies and reading articles from trusted sources. Support organizations that fight for change in the Black community like Color of Change and Loveland Therapy Fund. When you travel, visit museums, galleries and monuments that honor Black history and culture. And get involved in local organizations that support the Black community.
This year, for Black History Month we are celebrating Black authors by sharing some of our favorite reads. So snuggle up on the couch and pick your next great read this month. For more Black History Month resources check out our post on Anti-Racism teaching resources for kids and Black-Owned Businesses To Support.
20 Books By Black Authors
Drunk on Love by Jasmine Guillory
Looking for a juicy romance? Try Jasmine Guillory’s Drunk on Love. Set in Napa Wine Country, Drunk on Love, tells the story of vineyard owner, Margot Noble and Luke who she had a fling with prior to finding out he was her new employee. The tension builds as the two must work together. But will their romance trump their professional relationship? Find out for yourself!
Red at The Bone by Jacqueline Woodson
Jacqueline Woodson is one of my favorite authors for both children’s and adult stories. Her way of weaving poignant stories amongst beautiful language is just remarkable. In Red At The Bone, Woodson tells the story of Melody’s 16-year-old coming of age ceremony and the tie between this event and her families history dating back to the Tulsa race massacre in 1921. This story explores the connection between family, history, class, status, education, gentrification, identity and ambition.
Beloved by Toni Morrison
You may be familiar with the film adapted from Toni Morrison’s Beloved. But this story is a true masterpiece. The heartbreaking tale of Sethe, a former slave who lost her child and must overcome the horrors and brutality she endured. A story of resilience and love, Beloved shows the impact slavery has on both individuals and generations to come.
Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James
Called the “African Game of Thrones”, Black Leopard, Red Wolf tells the story of a mercenary’s quest to find a missing boy and the challenges and questions he must face to find his way out. In Black Leopard, Red Wolf, James weaves history and mythology with imagination and fantasy. Set to become a series, this is one you will want to read first!
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet
Although the Vignes twins are identical they lead very different adult lives. One living in the south with her daughter, while the other pretends to be white. And hides her past from her husband and family. The sisters can only keep their lives separate for so long. The Vanishing Half is a story of race and the influence of the past on the present. And how we must all pave our own way in the world.
Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid
Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid tells the story of a black babysitter, Emira Tucker who is accused of kidnapping a child. The public event spirals into a more complex issue as her employer, Alix Chamberlain, resolves to make things right for Emira. This story is a page-turner with so much heart that explores topics of race and priviledge so prevalent in our everyday life.
The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas
The Hate U Give tells the story of Starr Carter and her struggle to move between her poor neighborhood and fancy suburban prep school. Starr finds herself entangled in the unjust killing of her best friend by a police officer and a political uprising ensues. Starr must decide if she will speak up about what really happened that night and put her own life on the line.
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Becoming is such a beautiful memoir of Michelle’s life from her upbringing on the South Side of Chicago, to her role as a wife, mother and First Lady. Michelle Obama is a beautiful storyteller and her honest and witty reflections make this a story you won’t want to put down. You will fall in love with Michelle and feel so connected to her story and journey while also feeling supported in your own.
I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou
I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou the story of a girl with a rough childhood who learns to find love and kindness as an adult in order to free herself from her past. Angelou’s I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings is a powerful, poetic modern American classic, that is both heartwarming and life-changing.
Well-Read Black Girl by Glory Edim
Well-Read Black Girl is a collection of essays by Black women authors compiled by founder of the Well-Read Black Girl Book Club. Edim compiles beautiful essays that show the power of a book in providing a place of belonging and solice in the most difficult and wonderful times of our lives.
More of Our Favorites From Black Authors
- Salvage The Bones by Jesmyn Ward
- How We Fight For Our Lives by Saeed Jones
- Freshwater by Akwaeke Emezi
- Grand Union by Zadie Smith
- Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams
- The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates
- Finding Me by Viola Davis
- Nightcrawling by Leila Mottley
- Recitatif: A Story by Toni Morrison
- The 1619 Project by Nikole Hannah-Jones
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