What Are Some Good African American Books to Read?

The United States boasts a long history of gifted and critically acclaimed African-American writers. Turn to the following books for a glimpse into the talents of some of the world's most esteemed black authors.

The Color Purple

The Color Purple, Alice Walker's classic novel, tells the tale of an African-American woman's self-discovery amidst an abusive marriage and a newfound friendship.

Beloved

Toni Morrison's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel relays the struggles of Sethe, a runaway slave who's simply trying to raise her young daughter.

Go Tell It on the Mountain

An honest and forthright examination of family and religion, James Baldwin's masterpiece never fails to illicit a passionate response from all who read it.

Race Matters

Cornell West's groundbreaking and critically acclaimed nonfiction book, Race Matters, explores the power and politics of race in the United States.

Native Son

Native Son delves into the tragic tale of an African-American youth's descent into a life of crime and violence, all while commenting on the country's economic climate and justice system, as it relates it race.

References

• Internet Book List