Must Read Books by Black Authors: Fiction Edition
Hey, you know you can read Black authors ALL. THE. TIME. NOT just during Black History Month!
Here are some of my favourite fiction reads by Black authors (of course I will always be adding to it!).
(Note: For readers in the U.S., I’ve included links for Bookshop.org because they are a climate neutral certified company, Certified B corp, and they infuse funding into independently owned bookstores!)
What the Fireflies Knew
by Kai Harris
This literary fiction novel is incredibly poignant. It tells the story of Black girlhood and adolescence amidst the very real trauma of losing a parent, and then feeling abandoned by the other parent. It is a reflective and profound exploration into issues of family, race, and identity, and ultimately, belonging. Just such a beautiful book!
Girl, Woman, Other
by Bernardine Evaristo
This literary fiction novel about black women (many of whom are LGBTQ+) is a masterful exploration into intersectionality. The 12 main characters are all interconnected, all narrated with a distinct voice, and all have such depth and breadth in their histories and identities. They range in age, social class, sexual orientation, gender identity, family upbringing, intergenerational trauma - which all impact the trajectories of their lives. A truly incredible read!
The African Samurai
by Craig Shreve
Utterly immersive, heartbreaking and beautiful, this historical fiction novel about the first Black samurai is such a fascinating read. The voice feels so authentic and I loved learning about the samurai period in Japan. I came across this book during The FOLD in 2024 and knew I would have to read it. Definitely recommend!
In Every Mirror She's Black
by Lola Akinmade Akerstrom
I listened to the audiobook version of this book after hearing the author's interview with Layla F. Saad. It Layla’s podcast and knew I had to read it. It touches on many issues around racism, gender stereotypes, and class inequalities while telling the stories of 3 very different Black women. It is a beautifully written book and the stories are so compelling. A powerful and emotional read. Definitely recommend it!
Hush Harbor
by Anise Vance
This novel takes racial reckoning to a new level, and I couldn’t help but see so many parallels to past and present situations of apartheid and ethnic cleansing. The story depicts the movements of a resistance group, and delves deeply into the nuances of how justice can actually be achieved. It is thrilling but also thought-provoking. So well-written and fascinating.
What other recommendations do you have for fiction books by Black authors?
(Disclosure: I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and the Amazon.com.ca, Inc. Associates Program, affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com & amazon.ca. I am also an affiliate with bookshop.org. This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase products via these links, a small percentage of the sale will be given to me at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting juicygreenmom.ca!)