Black History Month Reads
One of the best ways to understand perspectives that are different from our own is reading! Reading books by those who belong in different cultures than mine has allowed me to learn so much and become exposed to different ideas. Even though Black History Month is coming to an end, it is important to give voice to and read books by Black authors in order to continue to educate ourselves. I know that as we become busier throughout the semester, it becomes difficult to find time to read or find books that we will enjoy, so I have put together a list of my favorite books that I have read by Black authors. Even if you only have time to read one, you will definitely be glad that you made the time!
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet
“From The New York Times-bestselling author of The Mothers, a stunning new novel about twin sisters, inseparable as children, who ultimately choose to live in two very different worlds, one black and one white.”
Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid
“In the midst of a family crisis one late evening, white blogger Alix Chamberlain calls her African American babysitter, Emira, asking her to take toddler Briar to the local market for distraction. There, the security guard accuses Emira of kidnapping Briar, and Alix’s efforts to right the situation turn out to be good intentions selfishly mismanaged.”
The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré
“The unforgettable, inspiring story of a teenage girl growing up in a rural Nigerian village who longs to get an education so that she can find her “louding voice” and speak up for herself, The Girl with the Louding Voice is a simultaneously heartbreaking and triumphant tale about the power of fighting for your dreams.”
So You Want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo
“In this breakout book, Ijeoma Oluo explores the complex reality of today’s racial landscape — from white privilege and police brutality to systemic discrimination and the Black Lives Matter movement — offering straightforward clarity that readers need to contribute to the dismantling of the racial divide.”
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
“Ifemelu and Obinze are young and in love when they depart military-ruled Nigeria for the West. Beautiful, self-assured Ifemelu heads for America, where despite her academic success, she is forced to grapple with what it means to be black for the first time. Quiet, thoughtful Obinze had hoped to join her, but with post-9/11 America closed to him, he instead plunges into a dangerous, undocumented life in London. Fifteen years later, they reunite in a newly democratic Nigeria, and reignite their passion — for each other and for their homeland.”
About the Author
Kennedy L. is a junior studying Psychology and Physiological Sciences. She is from Mokena, IL and has been working at the Raynor Information Desk since her freshman year.
