To say that 2020 has been a difficult year would be an understatement. In the face of an ongoing global pandemic, many around the world are now taking to the streets, demanding a much overdue end to police brutality and racism. It's in these moments that one often wishes to find quiet, a place of peace that offers temporary rest from unending sacrifice. Enter these 10 books, released in 2020, and written by black authors.
As social media continues to show support of Black authors with ##BlackoutBestSellerList and #BlackPublishingPower, your support comes at a crucial time. Spearheaded by Amistad Books, readers are encouraged to purchase two titles by Black authors from June 13 to June 20, which will hopefully result in a bestsellers list compromised entirely of Black authors.
Although the initiative has an end date, the work of Black authors is ongoing. For the times you're in need of happiness, a bit of magic, or you even wish to further educate yourself on your part in all of this, and where we go from here, these books are there to help. Ahead, click through for 10 Black-authored books that span multiple genres.
Step into a fantasy world inspired by West African folklore in this tale written by Roseanne A.Brown. The book, which will be followed with a secondary novel to come, centers on the story of Malik, a refugee willing to make a dangerous deal with the spirits. When Malik's sister goes missing, he'll do anything to get her back, including potentially ending the life of Karina, Crown Princes of Ziran, that has her own agenda.
From the New York Times best-selling author of I Can't Date Jesus comes a funny, honest, and profound collection of essays about money and debt, and the ways in which they impact how we chase our dreams.
Part of the Pocket Change Collective literature series, This Is What I Know About Art is a reminder that anyone is capable of creating. Encouraging readers to use their voice and talents for change, Drew uses personal experience to explain the connection between protest and art.
There's a good chance you've already seen Bennett's second novel all over Instagram, and with good reason. An instant #1 New York Times Bestseller, The Vanishing Half tells the story of two twin sisters, inseparable as children in a southern black community, who ultimately grow up to live very different lives — one black and one white.
This collection of essays was written entirely by Black women, with contributions touching on every genre of storytelling.
Add this book to your list of educational titles to read. Written by Mikki Kendall, the non-fiction title challenges the ideals of modern feminism, illuminating the ways in which the movement has often failed to address the needs of non-white women.
In this semi-autobiographical tale, a teenage wizard, named for the author, finds herself balancing the weight of two worlds — her home on the East Side of New York, and her new school with a magical mentor on the West Side. Touching on themes of poverty, violence, and racism, this magical tale also comes packed with heart.
When her college financial aid plans face a major disruption, Liz Lighty is willing to do anything to secure a win, and the scholarship, that comes with being crowned prom queen. Unfortunately, Liz's new friend Mack is also vying for the crown, and in a small town where prom is everything, the two besties might face a tough competition.
This story explores sexism and racism through the lens of a pair of mermaid best friends. High school students Effie and Tavia are put at the center of a murder trial, and it's only through friendship that the two will make it through a period of hardship.
A new, fresh voice arrives with Kiley Reid and the release of her debut novel, which tells the exhilarating story of a young Black babysitter, her white employer, and how their relationship unfolds following a surprising connection. It’s surely a page-turner for the times.