Maiysha Kai from theGrio has curated a list of books that you might consider for this holiday season.
As the renewed efforts to center all discussions around African American culture continue to progress, there’s a fresh inspiration to discover new authors and delve into the diverse spectrum of literature. These stories traverse borders and generations, shedding light on a wide array of experiences.
From 20th-century classics that capture crucial moments in the fight for civil rights to entertaining novels and gripping fantasy tales, there’s something here for every reader.
For Children
“The Snowy Day” – Jack Ezra Keats
“Zora the Story Keeper” – Ebony Joy Wilkins
“Big” – Vashti Harrison
“There Was a Party for Langston” – Jason Reynolds, Jarrett Pumphrey
“Stuntboy” – by Newbery Medal honoree, Jason Reynolds
Related Stories
“Walking Alone” Celebrates the Legacy of Kenny Washington
Carmelo Anthony Shares Memoir With Boyle Heights Youth
Inspirational
“I Hope You Fail” – Pinky Cole
“Sacred Self-Care” – Dr. Chanequa Walker-Barnes
“Manifesto: On Never Giving Up” – Bernadine Evaristo
“Your Journey to Financial Freedom: A Step-By-Step Guide” – Jamila Souffrant
History
“The Sisterhood” – Courtney Thorsson
“Black Women Writers at Work” – Claudia Tate
“Sing a Black Girl’s Song” – Ntozake Shange
“Bayard Rustin: A Legacy of Protest and Politics” – Michael G. Long
“Ode to Hip-Hop: 50 Albums That Define 50 Years of Trailblazing Music” – Kiana Fitzgerald
Coffee Table Books
“Brownies: A Love Letter to Black Families” – Karida L. Brown
“Divine” – Delphine Diallo
“Livable Luxe” – Bridgette Romanek
“Crowns” – Michael Cunningham, Craig Marberry, Maya Angelou
“Living Wild: How to Plant Style Your Home and Cultivate Happiness” – Hilton Carter
Cookbooks
“Meals, Music and Recipes: My American Kitchen” – Alexander Smalls, Marcus Samuelsson
“Sweet Home Café” – Albert Lukas, Jerome Grant, Jessica Harris
“Black Food” – Bryant Terry
Fiction
“As We Descend” – Jesmyn Ward
“River Sing Me Home” – Eleanor Shearer
“Black Chameleon” – Deborah D.E.E.P. Mouton
Witness – Jamel Brinkley
Poetry and Essays
“Chrome Valley” – Mahogany L. Browne
“Above Ground” – Clint Smith
“Bless the Daughter Raised by a Voice in Her Head” – Warsan Shire
“Quietly Hostile” – Samantha Irby
“Black Friend: Essays” – Ziwe
