Unlock The Riches Of History: 15 Must-Read Black History Month Books
February is Black History Month – a time to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of African Americans throughout history. It’s also a time to reflect on the past and present, and look forward to a better future for all.
In honor of Black History Month, we’ve compiled a list of 15 Black History Month books that will help readers learn more about African American culture and history. From biographies to fiction and non-fiction, these books offer insight into African American lives and experiences.
1. “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” by Malcolm X and Alex Haley
The Autobiography of Malcolm X, written with the help of Alex Haley, is a must-read classic of African-American literature. The book chronicles the life of Malcolm X from his early childhood to his assassination in 1965. It provides an intimate look into the life of the iconic civil rights leader, from his troubled upbringing in the Midwest to his time in prison, to his emergence as a leader in the Nation of Islam. This story of transformation and courage serves as an example for generations to come and reminds us of the power and strength of the African-American people. This is an essential read for those looking to gain a better understanding of this important figure and the ongoing struggle for civil rights and social justice.
2. “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston
Celebrate Black History Month with the classic novel “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston. Set in the early 1900s in the American South, this powerful story follows Janie Crawford on her journey to discover her true self and her own identity. Through love, loss, and friendship, Janie learns to trust her inner voice and gain independence. This timeless work of African American literature is considered one of the most important works of its time. Pick up your copy of “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston today and get lost in this timeless masterpiece.
3. “Roots: The Saga of an American Family” by Alex Haley
Experience the history of America’s African-American community as it is told through the powerful story of Alex Haley‘s family in “Roots: The Saga of an American Family”. Based on the stories told to Haley by his grandmother, this compelling book traces the history of Haley’s family in America from the mid-1700s to the late 1970s. Relive the struggles and triumphs of Haley’s family as they bravely confront slavery, separation and prejudice. Follow their journey of resilience, strength and courage as they strive for freedom and a better future. This classic story was made into a popular miniseries in 1977, and it has been a beloved source of inspiration and insight for generations. “Roots: The Saga of an American Family” is a must-have addition to any home library during Black History Month.
4. “The Warmth of Other Suns” by Isabel Wilkerson
The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson is an essential read for anyone looking to understand the history of African Americans in America. This book tells the powerful and heartbreaking story of the Great Migration of African Americans out of the Jim Crow South between 1915 and 1970. Wilkerson paints a vivid picture of what life was like during this time, and provides a unique insight into the lives of African Americans who made the difficult decision to leave their home and travel to a more tolerant place. This is a must-read book for anyone who wants to educate themselves on African American history and gain a better understanding of the struggles they faced.
5. “The Souls of Black Folk” by W.E.B. Du Bois
“The Souls of Black Folk” by W.E.B. Du Bois is a landmark collection of essays that explores the Black experience in America and the impact of racism and oppression. Written by one of the most influential African American scholars and civil rights leaders of all time, the essays in this book offer a unique perspective on the African American struggle and the fight for equality. This collection is essential reading for those seeking to deepen their understanding of African American history, culture, and society. The essays provide an insightful look at the various forms of racism and their effects, and offer a powerful call for social justice and equality. Written in a thoughtful and personal style, “The Souls of Black Folk” is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in African American history, culture, and society.
6. “Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates
“Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates is an essential read for anyone looking to better understand race and racism in the United States. Written as a letter from Coates to his son, this book provides a powerful and intimate look into the struggles of being an African American in this country. With its honest and thoughtful insights, Coates reveals a unique perspective on the history and current state of race relations in America. “Between the World and Me” is a must-read for anyone looking to gain further understanding of the African American experience in America and its implications on society today.
7. “The New Jim Crow” by Michelle Alexander
“The New Jim Crow” by Michelle Alexander is an important and eye-opening book that exposes the racial injustice of mass incarceration in the United States and its devastating effects on African Americans. Through compelling evidence, Alexander reveals how the prison system has become a new form of racial control that has been used to strip African Americans of their basic human rights and freedoms. This groundbreaking book challenges us to think more critically about the criminal justice system and its effects on our society. It provides an urgent call to action, and is a must-read for all those interested in fighting for justice, equality, and an end to racial injustice.
8. “The Fire Next Time” by James Baldwin
Celebrate Black History Month with the powerful essays of James Baldwin’s The Fire Next Time. In this collection of two powerful essays, Baldwin explores the history and legacy of racism in the United States, and offers a call to action for a better future. With his sharp insight and searing prose, Baldwin’s essays are a must-read for everyone looking to better understand the complexities of racism in the US, and to help create a more just and equal society. With this book, Baldwin sheds light on the urgent need for change, and provides a unique perspective on the past, present, and future of American race relations.
9. “Citizen: An American Lyric” by Claudia Rankine
“Citizen: An American Lyric” by Claudia Rankine is a powerful and timely work about race and racism in America. Through a mix of poetry, prose, and visuals, Rankine offers a candid exploration of the experience of living in a country where skin color can shape one’s life in both subtle and profound ways. Experience the full range of emotions, from sorrow to hope, as this thought-provoking book takes readers on a journey of dispassionate observation and personal reflection. Through this collection, Rankine invites us to broaden our understanding of the issues and to have meaningful conversations about race and racism in America today. Pick up a copy and join the conversation.
10. “The Negro Motorist Green Book” by Victor Hugo Green
The Negro Motorist Green Book by Victor Hugo Green is an essential document of the Jim Crow era. Published from 1936 to 1966, this book provided African American travelers with the information they needed to safely navigate the roads. It provided details on places to stay, restaurants, gas stations, and other services that catered to their needs. This book was an invaluable resource to African Americans during the time of segregation and still serves as an important reminder of the racism they faced. By providing a safe passage, it enabled more African Americans to travel and explore the country. The Negro Motorist Green Book is a powerful reminder of the adversity African Americans faced in the past and a testament to the strength and courage of the people who stood up to it.
11. “The Color of Law” by Richard Rothstein
The Color of Law by Richard Rothstein is an important and groundbreaking work on the history of public housing in the United States, and how it was used to segregate African Americans and other people of color. With the use of in-depth research and analysis, Rothstein examines the ways in which racism has been institutionalized in America, from legal decisions to public policies. This book is essential for anyone wanting to understand the ongoing legacy of racism and inequality in the US. It is an invaluable resource for all readers looking to gain a deeper understanding of the history and impact of racial discrimination in the US.
12. “Black Boy” by Richard Wright
“Black Boy” by Richard Wright is a powerful and gripping autobiographical novel that tells the story of Wright’s early life in the Jim Crow South. This important book gives readers an honest and heartbreaking look at the struggles of growing up poor and black in America. Through Wright’s vivid descriptions of the harsh realities of racism, poverty, and oppression, he paints a vivid and unforgettable picture of his experiences growing up in a society where he was constantly viewed as an “other”. Written with passion and insight, this novel is an essential read for anyone wanting to gain a better understanding of what it was like to live in the Jim Crow South.
13. “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot
“The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot is an important work that sheds light on the deeply troubling history of medical ethics and race. It tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, a poor African American woman, who unknowingly had her cells taken and used in the development of medical treatments without her consent. This book is a thought-provoking and necessary read that captures the historic and personal implications of medical ethics and race. By reading this book, readers will gain an important understanding of the ways in which medical advances have been made at the expense of individuals who are often unaware of the consequences.
14. “The Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead is a powerful, imaginative novel about slavery and freedom that tells the story of a runaway slave named Cora and her journey on the Underground Railroad. This award-winning novel is a must-read for Black History Month, offering a riveting account of courage and resilience in the face of oppression and injustice. With gripping suspense and vivid, evocative prose, Whitehead brings the story of Cora and the Underground Railroad to life in a way that is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Experience the power of Cora’s story and the hope of freedom with The Underground Railroad.
15. “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston
Celebrate Black History Month with the classic novel “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston. Set in the early 1900s in the American South, this novel follows Janie Crawford as she navigates love and loss in the face of adversity. It is an important work of African American literature and has left an indelible mark on the American literary landscape. Don’t miss out on this timeless classic – read “Their Eyes Were Watching God” today!
Conclusion
Black History Month is a great opportunity to explore and discover the rich and fascinating heritage of African Americans. With the help of these 15 essential Black History Month books, readers can gain a better understanding of the struggles and triumphs of those who have come before them. By reading these books, readers can gain a better appreciation of the diverse culture and history of African Americans and how it has helped shaped our society today.
>> Read more: Celebrating a Decade of Progress: Black History Month 2023