Books By Black Authors You Ought To Read! 🖤

There are a LOT of amazing books by Black authors and since it's Black History Month, I wanted to share a few of them with you.

Let's start with some of my faves

The Clapback: Your Guide to Calling out Racist Stereotypes by Elijah Lawal

This is one of my favourite books! Seriously, I recommend it to everyone I know because it doesn't matter if you're a Black/POC or a White ally, it helps to have the knowledge to clap back when faced with racism. Plus, the author Elijah Lawal is a UK author, so it helps to reference & connect to situations that are not too far away, because yes racism is not only happening in the US 🎤!

Love in Colour by Bolu Babalola

Firstly, I love the colours of the cover of this book! Seriously, it's so beautiful!

Secondly, representation is everything! When I was younger I was a big romantic but everything around me - apart from my parents and family was White - my Barbie and Ken, my mum’s Harlequin books that I read, etc. This was a book I wish I had when I was younger.

We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

This is a book on feminism but centred around lived experiences of a Black woman. It's a must-read!

For a bit of inspiration, business owners should definitely read

Twice As Hard: Navigating Black Stereotypes And Creating Space For Success by Raphael Sofoluke and Opeyemi Sofoluke

This is a powerful book by two Black entrepreneurs who are also husband and wife. The book explores the experience of Black professionals and racial stereotypes in the workplace.

A self-published book

Rules and Roses by Pookie Sho

Something a bit different with this book, which is self-published. I think it’s great to support all authors, not only the ones that are famous! It's a fantastic and well-written book that is an emotional rollercoaster.

Some books for Black kids

How We Love Our Hair by J Ayoola

This is a fantastic book to help teach little Black girls how to love their gorgeous hair.

Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry

Another fab book that teaches Black kids to love their hair. It's actually based on an Oscar-winning short film.

Now some books I haven’t read but which are on my list

The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris

I can't wait to read this one, I've heard a lot of good things about it!

Sista Sister by Candice Brathwaite

I love a self-help book! And Candice is just fab!

Finally, I have to mention the Queen!

Maya Angelou: The Complete Poetry

So much wisdom in this book. I believe it has a home on every bookshelf in the world!

Voilà! There are your books, I bet you can read them all before Black History Month 2022. 😉 If you do read some and enjoy them, then drop me a message on Instagram, I'd love to know your thoughts!

Vanessa x