5 Must-Read Books by Black Authors

From literary fiction to informative nonfiction, these books by Black authors are must-reads.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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In honor of Black History Month's 100th anniversary, this article highlights five must-read books by Black authors that explore themes of identity, social justice, and the Black experience. The list includes Angie Thomas' novel "The Hate U Give," Beverly Daniel Tatum's nonfiction work "Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?," Alice Walker's classic "The Color Purple," Saara El-Arifi's novel "Cleopatra: A Novel," and Mikki Kendall's essay collection "Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot."

Why it matters

Black authors have long been overlooked, with many of their works banned or stigmatized due to their content. This list aims to shine a light on powerful stories and perspectives from the Black community that provide important insights into identity, racism, and the ongoing fight for social justice.

The details

The article delves into the key themes and significance of each book on the list. For example, "The Hate U Give" explores the identity crisis of a teenage girl navigating her life between a poor, Black neighborhood and a wealthy, predominantly white prep school. "Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?" tackles the critical issue of self-segregation among Black students as a coping mechanism. "The Color Purple" is a literary classic that illustrates the power of female friendships in the face of tragedy and violence. "Cleopatra: A Novel" reframes the historical figure as a powerful, feminist icon. And "Hood Feminism" challenges the feminist movement to be more inclusive of marginalized, poor women.

  • Black History Month is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026.

The players

Carter G. Woodson

The historian who established Black History Month 100 years ago and declared, 'We must give our own story to the world.'

Angie Thomas

The author of the novel "The Hate U Give," which was inspired by the police shooting of Oscar Grant in Oakland, California.

Beverly Daniel Tatum

The author of the nonfiction book "Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?" which explores prejudice, critical-race theory, and white privilege.

Alice Walker

The author of the classic novel "The Color Purple," which has been adapted into a musical and two movies.

Saara El-Arifi

The author of the novel "Cleopatra: A Novel," which reframes the historical figure as a powerful, feminist icon.

Mikki Kendall

The author of the essay collection "Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women That a Movement Forgot," which challenges the feminist movement to be more inclusive.

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What they’re saying

“In my anger, frustration, and hurt, I only knew to do one thing - and that was write.”

— Angie Thomas (Angie Thomas' website)

“White men built her myth, and a Black woman will break it down. It is in that rubble that I put pen to paper.”

— Saara El-Arifi (Instagram)

The takeaway

This list of must-read books by Black authors provides a powerful platform for diverse stories and perspectives that have long been overlooked or marginalized. By engaging with these works, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the Black experience and the ongoing fight for social justice and equality.