Stacker compiled a list of 100 of the best books by Black Americans, with titles spread out between centuries, genres, subject matter, and themes.
Such a Fun Age
“Such a Fun Age” explores the intersections of growing up, race, and work. The book centers on the story of a 25-year-old Black babysitter who is accused of kidnapping a white child in her care. The book is author Kiley Reid’s debut novel.
I Almost Forgot About You
“I Almost Forgot About You” tells the story of a woman in her 50s who decides to change her life and finds love in the process. Author Terry McMillan is a #1 New York Times bestselling author known for novels such as “Waiting to Exhale” and “How Stella Got Her Groove Back.”
Pointe
Differing from the lighthearted theme in “The Only Black Girls in Town,” Brandy Colbert writes a shocking story of friendship in “Pointe.” The book is about a ballet dancer and her friend who returns home after being kidnapped for several years.
Boy with Thorn
Rickey Laurentiis is an acclaimed poet from New Orleans. “Boy with Thorn” represents his debut collection in a series of poems that take an unapologetic look at history, sexuality, violence, and race in the American South. The collection of poems is a winner of various awards.