New Favorite Books by Black Authors for your Black History Month Reading List
As we enter into Black History month I wanted to take some time to update on a few new books by Black authors I have read and loved recently. As I have mentioned before a lot of my favorite reads in the past have been by Black authors. While this previously was not a conscious choice I am now making a point of giving Black authors a prominent position in my TBR pile.
The Prophets by Robert Jones Jr.
This novel received alot of buzz and for good reason. Stunningly beautiful, this love story between two enslaved young men on a Deep South plantation is beautifully written and so haunting.
The Dragons, The Giant, The Women by Wayetu Moore
Wayetu Moore's memoir about escaping Liberia as a child, growing up as a black immigrant in Texas and her eventual return to Liberia is a deeply moving story about the search for home. As I have mentioned before I loved Moore's novel She Would Be King, a magical realism retelling of the founding of Liberia. Her memoir is further solidified her place as one of my favorite authors.
Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi
The story of a Ghanaian family in Alabama struggling with addiction, and dealing with grief really struck a chord for me. Having lost my own brother to addiction and seeing my mother suffer from deep depression in the aftermath I strongly related to the main character, Gifty as she tries find meaning in her own suffering and loss.
Deacon King Kong by James McBride
One of Barack Obama's favorite books of 2020 (his memoir was one of mine!) this books unwraps the shooting of a local drug dealer by the neighborhood's church deacon. As the truth behind the shooting unravels we learn that all secrets are not meant to be hidden and that the beginnings of love lie in hope and compassion.
Ambitious Girl by Meena Harris
Kamala Harris' niece Meena is many things. A lawyer, style icon ( did you see her at the Inauguration?), a mother, and one of Portia's favorite authors. Her second picture book ( her first is on constant repeat at our house) once again focused on her mother Maya and aunt Kamala as they journey to find their own strength and ambition.
