THE READING LIST #5
10 New Books by Black Authors to Add to Your Shelf
The Dark Maestro by Brendan Slocumb
From the creator of The Violin Conspiracy comes a thrilling tale of a musical prodigy who hides from a ruthless crime syndicate, using music to seek vengeance.
Can’t Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan
Hendrix Barry leads an extraordinary life but struggles with caring for an aging parent. She views romance as a luxury until she meets a man who matches her pace.
Decolonizing Language and Other Revolutionary Ideas by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o
Brilliant reflections on modern African literature and postcolonial criticism arise from a contemporary literary giant, inspiring deep discussions within the community.
Esperance by Adam Oyebanji
A clever thriller akin to Blake Crouch and Andy Weir, Esperance delves into a complex crime infused with racism, intergenerational trauma, and a chilling sense of justice.
Ghost in the Criminal Justice Machine: Reform, White Supremacy, & an Abolitionist Future by Emile Suotonye Deweaver
An impactful personal exploration of the subtle ways in which white supremacy undermines criminal justice reform, presented by the acclaimed activist and Soros Justice Fellow who has previously experienced incarceration.
This Is Your Mother by Erika J. Simpson
An innovative debut memoir exploring the complex mother-daughter bond through poverty, separation, and illness, examining identity amid impending loss, from "a writer destined for greatness" (Roxane Gay).
Marsha: The Joy and Defiance of Marsha P. Johnson by Tourmaline
Tourmaline, a prominent Black transgender figure, unveils the first comprehensive biography of the trailblazing activist Marsha P. Johnson, highlighting her significance and extraordinary contributions to LGBTQIA+ history, while illuminating her narrative, influence, and enduring legacy.
The Devil Three Times by Rickey Fayne
An ambitious debut that encompasses eight generations of a Black family in West Tennessee, who find themselves continually confronted by the Devil. Infused with the spiritual traditions and oral histories of the Black diaspora, The Devil Three Times serves as a dual baptism in fire and water, announcing a fresh voice in American literature.
The Battle for the Black Mind by Karida Brown
An engaging account of the struggle for Black educational emancipation and the tactics used to uplift Black intellect. The Battle for the Black Mind explores the quest for educational equity in the U.S. from the Civil War's end to Brown v. Board of Education, highlighting the spread of repressive educational systems to colonial Africa.
When We Talk to God: Prayers and Poems for Black Women Hardcover – May 13, 2025 by Sharifa Stevens
Invocations for gratitude, grief, and deep communication with God define "When We Talk to God" by poet-theologian Sharifa Stevens. This work blends artwork, prayers, and poetry for Black women, uplifting spirits and inspiring candid conversations with God. Stevens' impactful prose reflects her experiences, biblical references, and stunning visuals.