We’re only two months into the new year, and we’ve already seen so many amazing books by Black authors across all genres. March is shaping up to be no different, with all new collections of poetry, personal essays and cultural commentary.
Suggested Reading
Just in time for spring break, a thriller from talk show host Tamron Hall, a book of short stories about relationships in Lagos and an inside look at the child welfare system in America are just a few of the titles we’ll be packing for our trip.
These are the books by Black authors we can’t wait to read.
“The Black Box: Writing the Race” by Henry Louis Gates Jr. (March 19)
Citing examples of legendary Black literary voices, including Phillis Wheatley, James Baldwin and Zora Neale Hurston, Henry Louis Gates Jr. writes about the ways Black Americans have used the written word to define themselves throughout history in “The Black Box.”
“Girls of the World: Doing More Than Ever Before” by Linsey Davis (March 5)
In “Girls of the World,” ABC news anchor Linsey Davis writes about all of the amazing things girls can do in hopes of inspiring them to be strong and brave enough to go after their dreams. This beautiful is a great read for girls and boys ages 4 t o8.
“Nearly All The Men in Lagos Are Mad: Stories” by Damilare Kuku (March 19)
If you are over Valentine’s Day, “Nearly All the Men in Lagos Are Mad” is for you. Damilare Kuku’s anti-rom-com is a collection of 12 stories that deal with the difficulties of having romantic relationships with men in Nigeria’s largest city.
“You Get What You Pay For” by Morgan Parker (March 12)
“You Get What You Pay For” is a collection of essays from poet and author Morgan Parker. In the book, she writes about the struggles faced by Black women in America, drawing on examples from history and her personal experience as a single woman who has spent much of her life in therapy.
“Warrior on the Mound” by Sandra Headen (March 5)
Set in 1935, “Warrior on the Mound” is a middle grade novel written from the perspective of twelve-year-old Cato. The young aspiring baseball player finds himself in trouble when he and his Black teammates are accused of trespassing on a whites-only baseball field in their town. The gripping story comes to a dramatic climax when the Black and white teams face off in a winner-take-all game.
“Here in the (Middle) of Nowhere” by Anastacia Reneé (March 12)
Can you imagine a universe where god is a Black woman? Cross-genre queer writer Anastacia-Reneé explores that and more in “Here in the (Middle) of Nowhere,” a stunning collection of poetry, flash fiction and sci-fi.
“I Finally Bought Some Jordans” by Michael Arceneaux (March 12)
“I Finally Bought Some Jordans” is a collection of essays from New York Times bestselling author Michael Arceneaux about how to make your voice heard as a Black creative.
“My Divine Natural Hair: Inspiration and Tips to Love and Care for Your Crown” by Sheila Burlock, Sylvia Burlock and Melissa Burlock (March 26)
In “My Divine Natural Hair” Sheila Burlock and her daughters Sylvia and Melissa write about their personal experiences with natural hair and give tips on healing from past hair trauma and creating a healthy hair care routine.
“Imagine Freedom: Transforming Pain into Political and Spiritual Power” by Rahiel Tesfamariam (March 5)
During a time of deep racial division in the United States, “Imagine Freedom” invites readers to see the world differently, ending the cycle of racism and hate to set off on a path to freedom and healing.
“This Could Be Us” by Kennedy Ryan (March 5)
Kennedy Ryan, bestselling author of “Before I Let Go,” is back with “This Could Be Us.” The story centers around Soledad, who is trying to rebuild her life after a devastating betrayal. As she tries to put things back together, she leans into her power and the support of her girls and sister to get through.
“Watch Where They Hide” by Tamron Hall (March 12)
“Watch Where They Hide” is the latest novel from Emmy award-winning talk show host Tamron Hall. The gripping story follows journalist Jordan Manning, who discovers dangerous secrets while looking into a case of a missing mother.
“Broken: Transforming Child Protective Services” by Jessica Pryce (March 19)
In “Broken,” former caseworker Jessica Pryce explores the child welfare system from the perspective of the caseworkers and families who are deeply impacted. Pryce opens readers’ eyes to the systemic racism that is deeply rooted in the system and often creates a pipeline to incarceration.
“The Truth of Aleke” by Moses Ose Utomi (March 5)
“The Truth of Aleke” is the latest in Moses Ose Utomi’s “Forever Desert” series. The City of Truth is last remaining free city in the Forever Desert after protecting itself from constant attacks from the Cult of Tutu, which wants to conquer it. When 17-year-old Osi steps up to protect his home, he’s faced with the enormous responsibility of destroying the cult and freeing his people once and for all.
“Promise Kept” by K’wan (March 19)
“Promise Kept” follows Promise and her best friend, Mouse, who are hiding out in New York City after a violent incident at a party in New Jersey. Promise’s past comes back to haunt her when she meets a rapper who introduces her to some unsavory characters.
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