Looking for your next great read? Black authors are creating some of the most groundbreaking and imaginative works in literature today. From spellbinding fantasy worlds to edge-of-your-seat thrillers, these books offer fresh perspectives and unforgettable stories that’ll keep you turning pages late into the night.

Contemporary Fiction That’ll Move You

The landscape of contemporary fiction is rich with Black voices telling stories that matter. Take Colson Whitehead’s “The Nickel Boys,” winner of the Pulitzer Prize. It’s a powerful story about friendship and survival in the Jim Crow South. Or dive into “An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones, which explores love and justice in modern America.

Fantasy Worlds You Won’t Want to Leave

Black authors are reshaping the fantasy genre with fresh voices and perspectives:

• “Faebound” by Saara El-Arifi drops you into a world where magic has a price. El-Arifi weaves West African mythology with dark fantasy, creating a story about power and identity that’ll keep you hooked.
• “Lore of the Wilds” by Analeigh Sbrana brings a fresh take on fantasy with its vivid world-building and complex characters. The story follows a young warrior discovering ancient magic and her own strength.
• “The Blood Trials” by N.E. Davenport packs a punch with its mix of sci-fi and fantasy elements. It tackles racism and privilege while delivering heart-pounding action and political intrigue.

Mystery and Thriller Picks That’ll Keep You Guessing

Need something that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat?

• “One of Us Knows” by Alyssa Cole is a psychological thriller that’ll have you questioning everything. Cole masterfully builds tension in this story about family secrets and betrayal.
• “Needy Little Things” by Channelle Desamours brings horror and suspense together in a way that’ll make you sleep with the lights on. It’s a fresh voice in the thriller genre.
• “Against the Currant” by Olivia Matthews serves up a cozy mystery with a side of romance. Set in a Brooklyn bakery, it’s perfect for readers who like their mysteries with a dash of sweetness.

Historical Fiction That Matters

Don’t miss classics like “Beloved” by Toni Morrison or “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker. These books aren’t just stories – they’re windows into important chapters of American history told through unforgettable characters.

History Through Black Eyes

Want to understand Black history better? Pick up “The Warmth of Other Suns” by Isabel Wilkerson. She tells the story of the Great Migration through real people who lived it. It reads like a novel but teaches you more than any textbook.

Then there’s “The 1619 Project” by Nikole Hannah-Jones. It flips everything you thought you knew about American history on its head. You’ll see how Black Americans shaped our country from day one.

Poetry That Hits Different

If you think poetry isn’t your thing, try Claudia Rankine’s “Citizen.” It’s about everyday racism in America, told in a way that’ll make you stop and think. Some parts are just a paragraph long, but they’ll stick with you for days.

And don’t sleep on Amanda Gorman’s “The Hill We Climb.” Yeah, it’s the one from the inauguration. But reading it hits differently than hearing it. You catch things you missed the first time.

Why These Books Matter Now

Reading diverse authors isn’t just about checking boxes. It’s about experiencing different perspectives and understanding the rich tapestry of human experience. These books offer:

• Fresh perspectives on universal themes
• Voices that challenge and expand our worldview
• Stories that entertain while making us think
• Characters that stay with you long after the last page

Ready to Start Reading?

Pick any book from this list and you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re into heart-racing thrillers or magical fantasies, these authors bring unique voices and perspectives to their genres. Your next favorite book might be waiting right here.

Pro tip: Support Black authors and bookstores by buying directly from Black-owned bookshops. Many offer online ordering and shipping.

What makes these books special isn’t just their themes or genres – it’s the authentic voices and experiences woven into every page. They’re not just good books by Black authors; they’re good books, period. And they’re waiting to be discovered by readers like you.

Quick Tips for Your Reading Journey

• Don’t feel pressure to “get” everything. Let the stories wash over you
• Keep a notebook handy. These books drop wisdom you’ll want to remember
• Talk about what you’re reading with friends. These books spark great conversations
• Mix it up between fiction and non-fiction. They show different sides of the same story

Looking Forward

Reading Black authors isn’t just about understanding history – it’s about getting different perspectives on right now. These books help us see where we’ve been, where we are, and where we might go next.

So grab one of these books. Any of them. You won’t regret it. And if you’ve got a favorite Black author I didn’t mention? Drop it in the comments. We’re all here to learn from each other.

Remember: These aren’t just “Black books.” They’re great books that happen to be by Black authors. They’re for everyone who loves good writing and powerful stories. And that’s all of us, right?

Happy reading!

D.

Check out my previous post about my book club read of the month –> Here

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