I am an avid reader. I picked up that hobby senior year of high school while realizing I was increasingly becoming more like my grandmother. Moreover, reading a good book, magazine, or blog post has always been one of my main sources of enjoyment. Zoning out and diving into the pages of a good book gives me a chance to reflect and exercise my imagination. Also, my lovers of a good book will agree, the feeling that you’re taking a glimpse into another world is insane. While in college my collection of books has grown immensely (in hopes that one day it’ll be like a miniature library). There are a few novels in my collection that, as an African American woman, I feel are a must read for every black woman with hopes to expand their collection. I carefully picked 7 books written by a few of my favorite authors that will indubitably broaden your mind and aid you on your journey of self-discovery.
1. “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” by Maya Angelou
Of course, Maya Angelou would create this true work of art. Angelou really captures the heart of her struggles of growing up as a black woman during the Depression. Her style of writing will capture you. Her words will have a profound ability to engage you. With that being said, once you pick it up, you cannot put it down. I highly recommend this as staple on the shelves of African-American women of all ages. Since published, it has become a renowned classic of African-American literature.
2. “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison
Toni Morrison is one of my FAVORITE authors. This is her first novel (also, the first one I got a chance to read) and it is a must-read. She writes a story about a young black girl who struggles with identity, so much so that she wants to be a blonde hair, blue-eyed black girl. This 200-page novel is worth reading because of its realness that depicts a community that did not value the beauty that young black girls have. Her writing is mind blowing; in a good way! It will have your mind working!
3. “The Coldest Winter Ever” by Sister Souljah
After becoming hooked with the anticipation in this urban fiction, I could not put it down. Sister Souljah writes about Winter Santiaga, the “Queen of Brooklyn”, a resourceful, and street-wise girl that unfortunately does not understand the value of a dollar. You will learn that Winter is a selfish, bad girl, but you cannot help but to root for her. A big lesson in this book is making gut choices. Usually, if your decision turns out to be the wrong one then you learn from it. Regrettably the main character in this book never does. After reading this you’ll possibly be craving to read the other sides of this story in her next 3 novels.
4. “Their Eyes were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston
Just watching the movie will not cut it! Warning: Readers often feel Hurston’s use of the African American vernacular speech of the South could be hard to read. However, once you get used to it, this is what is the most beautiful and engaging part about the novel. Hurston’s words will guide you along in this book as the main character, Janie, goes through many life changing events. Enjoy the way she elevates the story by adding themes such as empowerment and identity.
5. “The Little Black Book of Success” by Elaine Meryl Brown, Marsha Haygood and Rhonda Joy Mclean
The Little Black Book of Success can serve as your personal mentor on your book shelf. This is not just another typical self-help book; It gives you a lot of helpful tips for climbing the corporate ladder as a black woman. Also, this novel will help transform you from average to above average in all the leadership roles you will hold. The three authors make sure you understand that you’re not alone with a lot of the challenges that you will face in the workplace. Grab a friend and grow together as you check out this self-help book.
6. “What I know for sure” by Oprah Winfrey
This book is basically a guide to becoming your best self. It’s perfect for the reader that Is looking to find the joy that is probably right beside them. Oprah Winfrey’s take on how she perceives the world is very uplifting. Her words are meaningful; earning this novel 5 stars in my book. A short, yet wisdom packed read from a woman whom I admire.
7. “Year of Yes” by Shonda Rhimes
Shonda Rhimes lives a busy life, but she did find time to say yes to writing this book. She takes us along her journey of saying yes to everything for a whole year. After her life altering decision she tests us to say yes to all things that challenges us, scare us, or things that we are just unsure about. In her story, every time she steps out of her comfort zone it was a bit more transformative, and It can be for you too. Because of Rhonda’s tone, reading this will have you feeling that you are having a casual conversation with her over a cup of tea.