I know I can’t keep saying this every month, but y’all, November is coming in hot with great books by Black authors. From a picture book biography for kids about Oprah to a cookbook from Snoop Dogg and E-40 that shows all kinds of California love, believe me when I say there is something for everyone.
Suggested Reading
These are the books I can’t to get my hands on this November.
“Tomlin: The Soul of a Football Coach” by John Harris (November 21)
“Tomlin” is the story of Mike Tomlin, who at age 34 was hired as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Relatively unknown, Tomlin had his work cut out for him, replacing Hall of Fame coach Bill Cowher. But he rose to challenge and went on to become the youngest coach to win a Super Bowl in only his second season in charge. This is truly inspiring story. And the foreword by legendary coach Tony Dungy proves game recognizes game..
“Danni’s Juke Joint Comfort Food: Modern Day Recipes, Ole Skool Flava” by Danni Rose (November 7)
When you go to a juke joint, you’re guaranteed to have good food and a good time. Birmingham native Danni Rose is paying tribute to the culture in “Dannie’s Juke Joint Comfort Food,” a collection of some of her favorite recipes and memories. Daddy’s Fried Cheese Grits, Cajun Deviled Eggs and Ole Skool Mac ’n’ Cheese are just a few of the mouthwatering recipes inside.
“Made Whole: The Practical Guide to Reaching Your Financial Goals” by Tiffany Aliche (November 21)
If you’re looking to get your money right in the new year, “Made Whole” can give you a boost. Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche shares practical advice for saving, increasing your credit score and keeping yourself on track to reach your financial goals.
“Snoop Dogg Presents Goon With the Spoon” by Snoop Dogg and Earl “E-40″ Stevens (November 14)
We got a taste of Snoop’s skills in the kitchen on VH1’s Martha & Snoop’s Potluck Dinner Party. Now, he’s sharing some of his recipes in “Snoop Dogg Presents Goon With the Spoon,” the Doggfather’s cookbook collaboration with another rap legend, Earl “E-40″ Stevens. With recipes like Flamin’ Hot Cheetos Mac ’n’ Cheese Bites and Purple Popsizzles, this book is sure to make cooking a lot more fun.
“Purple Rising: Celebrating 40 Years of the Magic, Power, and Artistry of The Color Purple” by Lise Funderburg and Scott Sanders (November 7)
Just in time for the 40th anniversary of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize win for “The Color Purple,” “Purple Rising” pays tribute to the cultural phenomenon. With contributions from Alice Walker, Oprah Winfrey, Danny Glover, Fantasia Barrino and more, the book is a beautiful celebration of this story of family and survival.
“The Risk it Takes to Bloom: On Life and Liberation” by Raquel Willis (November 14)
“The Risk it Takes to Bloom” is the powerful new memoir from Black transgender activist Raquel Willis. The Georgia native writes openly about her journey from hiding her identity to becoming one of the most important and outspoken advocates for marginalized communities. The book has already received plenty of praise from her peers.
“There are too few works written by and for Black trans people, and with The Risk It Takes to Bloom Raquel Willis offers a moving and generous testimony that is as personal as it is political,” said bestselling author and activist Janet Mock.
“The Princess of Thornwood Drive” by Khalia Moreau (November 7)
Fans of fantasy will love getting lost in “The Princess of Thornwood Drive,” Khalia Moreau’s debut novel. The story centers around two sisters trapped on opposite sides of reality after a car accident kills their parents and leaves one sister paralyzed and nonverbal.
“The Upcycled Self: A Memoir on the Art of Becoming Who We Are” by Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter (November 14)
GRAMMY Award-winning co-founder of The Roots, Tariq Trotter (aka Black Thought), shares his unfiltered autobiography this month with the release of “The Upcycled Self.” In the book, he writes openly about his journey from childhood tragedy to his rise to becoming one of the best rappers in the game.
“Make Money Move: A Guide to Financial Wellness” by Lauren Simmons (November 7)
In 2017, a 22-year-old Lauren Simmons became the youngest full-time female trader at the New York Stock Exchange and only the second Black woman in the Exchange’s 228-year history. Now, in “Make Money Move, ” the host of the popular Money Moves podcast is sharing tips to help Black women find financial freedom.
“The Invisible Ache: Black Men Identifying Their Pain and Reclaiming Their Power” by Courtney B. Vance and Dr. Robin L. Smith (November 7)
Since losing his father and godson to suicide, actor Courtney B. Vance has been a tireless advocate for Black men’s mental health. In “The Invisible Ache,” Vance and Dr. Robin L. Smith offer Black men a guide to navigating life’s ups and downs and nurturing their mental well-being.
The legendary Ervin “Magic” Johnson said, “For Black men, there is no better voice of compassion and understanding than Courtney B. Vance to help initiate this healing journey.”
“Oprah Winfrey: A Little Golden Book Biography” by Alliah L. Agostini (November 7)
Your littlest readers can learn the story of one of the most influential women in the world with “Oprah Winfrey: A Golden Book Biography” a new picture book biography designed for readers ages 4 – 8.
“Self-Care for Black Men: 100 Ways to Heal and Liberate” by Jor-El Caraballo (November 7)
Black men face unique challenges that make self-care more important than ever. But resources tailored to their needs are few and far between, which is why licensed therapist Jor-El Caraballo’s “Self-Care for Black Men” is so important. The book contains self-care strategies and activities designed to help Black men manage their mental health.
“Like Thunder: The Desert Magician’s Duology: Book Two” by Nnedi Okorafor (November 28)
“Like Thunder” is the sequel to Nnedi Okorafor’s “Shadow Speaker.” This fast-paced sci-fi fantasy combines technology and magic in the best way.
“Futureland: The Nightmare Hour” by H.D. Hunter (November 7)
Cam Walker’s family is preparing to open a theme park in New York City. But when unexpected glitches happen with the attractions and he starts to feel his family is being watched, Cam wonders if “Futureland” is more of a nightmare than a dream in this action-packed novel for readers ages 8 – 12.
“Fake Famous” by Dana L. Davis (November 7)
“Fake Famous,” is Dana L. Davis’ latest YA novel for readers ages 14 and up. The story centers around a teenage girl who is forced to choose between her dream of stardom and her commitment to her family. Seventeen.com called Davis a “Black female author you should have on your bookshelf.”
“Killing the Image: A Champion’s Journey of Faith, Fighting, and Forgiveness” by Andre Ward (November 14)
“Killing the Image” is Hall of Fame Boxing Champion and Olympic gold medalist Andre Ward’s story of how he overcame the challenges of his childhood to rise to the top of his sport – and why he decided to walk away from the ring while he was at the top of his game.
“Duel” Written by Jessixa Bagley, Illustrated by Aaron Bagley (November 7)
Jessixa Bagley is back with “Duel,” a new graphic novel for middle grade readers. The story centers around sisters who turn their sibling rivalry into an epic fencing duel.
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