As many of us embark on learning how to be antiracist, we’re gathering books, documentaries, and podcasts. It’s a great start. In my view, one thing that is important to consider when buying books and documentaries is that what we read and listen to should be written and created by Black people. They are the individuals who experience racism, don’t you think? I mean, we would learn about farming by a farmer, not a fisherman, right? It’s the same thing in my opinion. So, before purchasing, look to see who wrote that great book. Black authors deserve to have their voices lifted and get paid for their work.
Further, in my view, it’s vital that we start uplifting voices of color in all avenues of our life. Where do you shop? What restaurants do you frequent? Where do you get your haircut? By doing some local research, you can help uplift Black voices in all areas of life. This is exactly what reading Black authors does. For centuries, people have listened to white people—about freaking everything. So, in my view, as we learn about antiracism, it’s on us as white people to not only uplift Black voices, but listen to them as well.
Here’s a short list {there are many more gems out there} of books by Black authors to get you started in diversifying your home library:
For You, The Parent and/or Teens:
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Motherhood so White by Nefertiti Austin
Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehesi Coates
How to be Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi
Literally anything by Maya Angelou
Stamped by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi
The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander
Try These Picture Books For Little Kids:
Hair Like Mine series by LaTashia M. Perry {local Flint author!}
Little Leaders: Bold, Black Women in History by Vashti Harrison
I am Enough by Grace Byers
Malcolm Little by Ilyasah Shabazz
Knock Knock: My Dad’s Dream for Me by Bryan Collier
The Other Side by Jaqueline Woodson
For Bigger Kids:
Sit in by Andrea Davis Pinkney
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jaqueline Woodson
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
New Kid by Jerry Craft
One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia
So many of us are listening and learning about what it means to be antiracist, how to be inclusive. Are you ready to dive into your journey? Collaborate with others, ask questions, and again, uplift Black voices.
What books are you reading by Black authors?
