12 Books to Read During Black History Month

Black History Month is a time to celebrate Black voices and stories while committing to furthering one’s education on Anti-Racism. While this is an ongoing journey and not one that should end when February does, we gathered 12 must-reads for book lovers looking to engage with Black authors and experiences. Whether you enjoy novels, non-fiction, or celebrity memoirs, we’ve got you covered. If you’re looking to buy any of the books below, consider supporting black-owned bookstores, either local to your community or online!  

# 1 – Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi

One of Oprah’s Best Books of the Year, Homegoing follows the parallel paths of these sisters and their descendants through eight generations: from the Gold Coast to the plantations of Mississippi, from the American Civil War to Jazz Age Harlem. Yaa Gyasi’s extraordinary novel illuminates slavery’s troubled legacy both for those who were taken and those who stayed—and shows how the memory of captivity has been inscribed on the soul of our nation. Buy now

# 2 – Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson

In this compelling family drama, estranged siblings Byron and Benny reunite after their mother's death, only to discover a hidden past through a traditional Caribbean black cake and a voice recording. As they unravel their mother's secrets, they confront their own identities and the bonds that hold them together. Wilkerson weaves a rich narrative about heritage, betrayal, and the resilience of family ties. Buy now.

# 3 – An American Marriage by Tayari Jones

Tayari Jones presents the story of Celestial and Roy, a Black couple whose lives are upended when Roy is wrongfully imprisoned. The novel explores the strain on their relationship and the personal ambitions of each character, highlighting the challenges Black professionals face in their careers and personal lives amidst systemic injustices. Buy now.

# 4 – The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson

Last year’s Career Group Companies Book Club pick, The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson follows the story of two women, Ruby and Eleanor, in 1950s Philadelphia and Washington, DC as they navigate what it means to be a woman and a mother, and how much one is willing to sacrifice to achieve her greatest goal. Buy now

# 5 – The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin

You can’t have a list on Black literature without including text by James Baldwin, a key voice of the Civil Rights Movement and acclaimed writer and essayist. Often considered a seminal text, The Fire Next Time is a must-read for understanding race in America today. Buy now

# 6 – Conversations With Myself by Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela is widely considered to be one of the most inspiring and iconic figures of our age. After a lifetime of taking pen to paper to record thoughts and events, hardships and victories, he bestowed his entire extant personal papers in 2010, which offer an unprecedented insight into his remarkable life. Buy now

# 7 – The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris

Now an original Hulu series, this novel follows Nella Rogers, an editorial assistant at a prestigious publishing house in New York City. As the only Black employee, Nella feels isolated until Hazel, another Black woman, joins the company. Initially, Nella is thrilled to have a colleague who understands her experiences, but as Hazel's star rises, Nella begins receiving threatening notes, leading her to question the dynamics of race and ambition in the workplace. Buy now.

# 8 – Black Women Will Save the World: An Anthem by April Ryan

Veteran journalist April Ryan celebrates the resilience and contributions of Black women in various spheres, from politics to culture. Through interviews and personal anecdotes, she highlights the pivotal roles Black women have played in shaping history and advancing social justice. Buy now.

# 9 – Erasure by Percival Everett

There has never been a better time to read Percival Everett's biting and witty novel as it hits theaters in a film adaptation titled American Fiction. Erasure is a blistering satire following struggling writer Thelonious Monk Ellison and his unexpected and unintended success. How Monk deals with the personal and professional challenges his success presents galvanizes this audacious, hysterical, and quietly devastating novel. Buy now

# 10 – The Office of Historical Corrections by Danielle Evans

Danielle Evans is widely acclaimed for her blisteringly smart voice and X-ray insights into complex human relationships. In The Office of Historical Corrections she introduces us to Black and multiracial characters who are experiencing the universal confusions of lust and love, and getting walloped by grief - all while exploring how history haunts us, personally and collectively. Ultimately, she provokes us to think about the truths of American history - about who gets to tell them, and the cost of setting the record straight. Buy now

# 11 – What Napoleon Could Not Do by DK Nnuro

This thought-provoking novel explores the immigrant experience through the lives of Jacob and Belinda Nti, Ghanaian siblings with contrasting relationships to the American Dream. Nnuro delves into themes of identity, ambition, and the complexities of assimilation, offering a nuanced portrayal of the sacrifices and aspirations of immigrants. Buy now.

# 12 – I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

Saving the best for last – you simply must read this book. Maya Angelou’s debut memoir is a modern American classic beloved worldwide. It is so poetic and powerful. Maya learned that through self-love, the kindness of others, and her own strong spirit, she would find freedom. Buy now‍

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If you (like most) can’t read twelve books in one calendar month, consider this list a jumping-off point in your ongoing commitment to diversifying your reading list. These books offer fresh, insightful perspectives on Black history, culture, and identity—perfect for deepening your understanding during Black History Month. Want more? Barnes & Nobles put out an expanded list of this month’s essential reading and the National Museum of African American History and Culture has published a list of ways you can thoughtfully celebrate Black History Month this year.