In celebration of Black History Month, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History compiled a list of 54 must-read African American books.

The book list is divided into three categories: adult fiction, nonfiction, and children & young adult African American literature. You can scroll down to see The Wright’s recommended reading list.

54 Must-Read African American Books Recommended by The Wright

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My Personal Goal to Read More African American Books

Last December, I made it a personal goal to read more African American literature for the year 2020. So far, I have read books by the following Black writers:

Maya Angelou | 54 Must-Read African American Books
Maya Angelou. Photo courtesy poiltico.com.

I decided to make reading more books written by Black writers my personal goal because I want to learn more about the history of my culture and become well-versed in Black literature, social justice, and racial justice issues concerning the African American community.

I’m actually more familiar with classic Black writers than I am with new writers. This is another reason why I made it a personal goal to read more African American books.

I would like to read more books by new (to me) Black writers like Angie Thomas (The Hate U Give) and Kiley Reid (Such a Fun Age— Reid’s book is on my wish list).

James Baldwin |54 Must-Read African American Books for Black History Month
James Baldwin | Photo courtesy of vocal.media.com.

A Few of My Favorite Black Writers

  • Maya Angelou
  • James Baldwin
  • Ernest Gaines
  • Alice Walker
  • Zora Neale Hurston
  • Langston Hughes
  • Richard Wright
  • Toni Morrison
  • Yaa Gyasi

Even though Black History Month is coming to a close, we should all take the time to read African American literature, whether fiction or nonfiction works, throughout the year!

Check out below The Wright’s recommended African American books for you to read!

Each list features classic and contemporary Black writers from various genres. You can find the recommended books at your local bookstore, online retailer, or local library.

Must-read African American books of fiction recommended by Detroit's Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
Must-read African American books of nonfiction recommended by Detroit's Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
Must-read African American children's books recommended by Detroit's Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.

Featured book list images are courtesy of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. Click here to learn more about the museum. Feature image courtesy of msnbc.com.

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Jennifer Hamra

Freelance creative Jennifer Hamra created her blog Good Life Detroit in 2015 after relocating from Tennessee to Southeast Michigan.

Inspired by her love for personal blogging and photography, Jennifer likes to share her favorite Detroit things, from cool places to visit (the hidden gems are her favorite!) to the amazing people she has connected with over the years.

When she's not busy juggling family life and her creative projects, you can find her at an art gallery, community event, farmers market, or spending quiet time at home with a good book and cup of tea.

Jennifer lives in the metro Detroit area with her husband Travis and their six children.

Connect with Jennifer on social media @goodlifedetroit on all social media platforms or via email at [email protected].