Representation in the book industry is on the rise, according to a newly released report by Wordsrated.
According to the investigation, the number of Black authors increased almost 21% from 2019 to 2020.
Although the book industry is still white-dominated, it marked the first year that more than 10,000 Black authors were registered in the U.S. government database.
To show support, here are five newly released or upcoming books by Black authors to put on reading lists this year.
- In Our Shoes: On Being a Young Black Woman in Not-So “Post-Racial” America Written by author Brianna Holt, “In Our Shoes” is the debut book by author and journalist Brianna Holt. As a mix of both a memoir and critique on modern-day culture, the collection of essays focuses specifically on taking apart stereotypes about Black womanhood in America.
- Plantains and Our Becoming: This collection by poet Melania Luisa Marte discusses the histories of both the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Set for release on August 22, “Plantains and Our Becoming” follows themes such as nationalism, displacement, generational trauma and honoring one’s ancestry. With her first published collection, Marte focuses on emphasizing the importance of celebrating one’s identity and roots.
- We Are a Haunting: This debut novel by author Tyriek White follows the story of a family across three generations. Embedded with a supernatural fantasy storyline, “We Are a Haunting” focuses on telling the story of Key and her son Colly. In the 1980s, Brooklyn, Key works as a doula while maintaining a connection with the dead. When she passes away, her mother Audrey is left with raising Colly, who shares the same talent, while also dealing with gentrification. In the present, Colly deals with his grief and his gift as he sets out on a journey of self-discovery and what it means to be part of a community.
- Onyeka and the Rise of the Rebels: Recently published on March 2, “Onyeka and the Rise of the Rebels” is the latest book by author, journalist and educator Tola Okogwu. Part of the Onyeka series, this latest edition in this series for middle schoolers follows the titular character and her superhero friends as they’re on the run after foiling the plots of the previous book’s villain. Left with little choice, Onyeka and her friends are forced to turn to the rogues, a group of rebels, to defeat the enemy and find safety once again.
- Jerry Changed the Game!: How Engineer Jerry Lawson Revolutionized Video Games Forever: Set for release on August 29, “Jerry Changed the Game!” is a picture book by Golden Kite Award-winning author Don Tate and illustrator Cherise Harris. The duo’s latest book spotlights the achievements of engineer Jerry Lawson. The book specifically focuses on his impact on the gaming industry as a pioneer in creating video games. Through illustrations, “Jerry Changed the Game!” highlights his work in the 1970s when he built a new console that allowed players to switch cartridges and when he founded the first Black-owned video game company in the U.S.
