16 Books By Black Authors We’re Excited About This Month – Essence
The temps are still frigid for most of us, but why complain when there are so many awesome book releases set for this month? Now is the perfect time to curl up with a warm throw, light a scented candle, sip on a cup of hot cocoa and embark on a journey with an enticing new read. There are compelling novels from luminaries like New York Times bestselling authors Tayari Jones and Sadeqa Johnson, a relationship guidebook meets memoir from Da Brat and her wife Judy, a powerful memoir from the legendary actress Marla Gibbs and a children’s offering from musical powerhouse Questlove.
We’re also excited about a fascinating account from a death doula that unpacks how we process grieving a loved one in the Black community, a tool book to help Black women rest and truly live their best lives, a book that uncovers the parallels between successful Black business leaders and our churches, a youth title about R&B musical icons that will have adults equally intrigued, and more. Trust us: There is truly something for everyone here. Enjoy your needed literary escape with one (or all) of our must-reads for February!
It’s Never Too Late: A Memoir
By: Marla Gibbs
She kept us laughing in her unforgettable roles in the 1980s and 1990s sitcoms The Jeffersons and 227 and now at 93 (!), she’s letting the world learn how she ascended from a challenging humble childhood to becoming a member of Hollywood royalty.
Available at HarperCollins
Penned by an acclaimed New York Times bestselling author, this novel takes readers on a journey of two best friends growing up in Honeysuckle, Louisiana and takes us through life’s unexpected twists and turns encompassing themes of class, family, friendship and love.
Available at PenguinTime for a Change
By: Questlove with S.A. Cosby
Perfect for the tweens or teens in your orbit, this is the second book in a thrilling middle grade sci-fi trilogy from six-time Grammy winner, Amhir “Questlove” Thompson and New York Times bestselling author, S.A. Cosby. It promises an exciting plot, robots (Are they allies or enemies?), time traveling and more.
Available at MacMillanThe Way Love Goes: A Guide to Building a Beautiful & Everlasting Relationship
By: Da Brat & Judy
Hip-hop legend Da Brat and beauty entrepreneur Jesseca “Judy” Harris-Dupart’s largely have the ESSENCE Festival to thank for the love story! The married couple and proud parents detail the ups and downs of their union and share the secrets of their staying power in this candid book.
Available at HarperCollinsFireflies in Winter
By: Eleanor Shearer
1790s Nova Scotia, peppered with the rarely discussed Leeward Maroons of Jamaica, are the backdrop for this beautiful historical tale of Cora and Agnes who discover each other unexpectedly and risk everything to be together.
Available at Penguin Random HouseThe Remarkable Life of Reed Peggram: The Man Who Stared Down World War II in the Name of Love
By: Ethelene Whitmire
Award-winning historian and professor Ethelene Whitmire unearthed fascinating letters from a young Black scholar who studied in Europe on the same prestigious scholarship as literary greats Zora Neale Hurston and Langston Hughes.
Available at Penguin Random HouseWorse Than a Lie
By: Ben Crump
The first title in a riveting series from the renowned civil rights attorney, this crime thriller begins on the historic night of November 4, 2008 when a Chicago police traffic stop tragically goes wrong.
Available at Penguin Random HouseKeeper of Lost Children
By: Sadeqa Johnson
Best-selling New York Times author Johnson returns with a historical fiction work that unexpectedly ties three people together around one American woman’s vision in post-World War II Germany.
Available at Simon & SchusterNever Can Say Goodbye: The Life of a Death Doula and the Art of a Peaceful End
By: Darnell Lamont Walker
Most of us avoid conversations around death, yet this book by Emmy-nominated writer, producer, and experienced death doula Walker poignantly invites readers to confront generations old taboos surrounding death and grief within the Black community.
Available at HarperCollinsThe People Can Fly: American Promise, Black Prodigies and the Greatest Miracle of All Time
By: Dr. Joshua Bennett
MIT Distinguished Chair of the Humanities Bennett dares to investigate the cost of being deemed “promising” in an unjust world and does so through researching several beloved cultural icons including Nikki Giovanni, James Baldwin and Stevie Wonder.
Available at Hachette Book GroupCall and Response: 10 Leadership Lessons from the Black Church
By: L. Michelle Smith
A captivating exploration of why many successful Black businesspeople attribute their leadership qualities to impactful experiences growing up in the Black church and how these skills can be fostered in younger generations.
Available at HarperCollinsRelease, Rest, Remain: A 30-Day Devotional to Embrace Abiding Over Striving
By: Yvette Henry
Writer, speaker, social media influencer and mom of four, Henry challenges readers to discover lasting peace and joy amid the chaos of adulting in this uniquely designed guide created specifically with busy women in mind.
Available at Penguin Random HouseWhere the Wildflowers Grow
By: Terah Shelton Harris
A touching novel about a young woman who finds a fresh start on a rural Alabama flower farm while seeking a place to hide (and heal) after escaping from prison.
Available at SourcebooksThe ABCs of R&B
By: Claudia Walker
Ever wish you could teach the young people in your world about the joy of timeless soul music in a way that was both fun and informative? This book gets the job done in a super colorful and vibrant way, plus everyone from Aaliyah to Zhané were invited to this party with a purpose!
Available at HBCU Prep SchoolThe Real Ones: How to Disrupt the Hidden Ways Racism Makes Us Less Authentic
By: Maya Rupert
Top political strategist Rupert expertly reveals just how expensive authenticity can be for Black people, from the entry-level administrative assistant to super star Beyoncé and shines a stark light on the ways being inauthentic is a necessary form of survival for some of us.
Available at Penguin Random HouseEmbody Your Magic: Create the Life of Your Dreams Through Astrology, Numerology, Mediumship, Metaphysics, and Human Design
By: Aycee Brown
Equipped with more than 15 years of experience as a spiritual guide and physic channel who often works with high-profile professionals, Brown helps readers on their healing journey in a brutally honest yet thoughtful way.
Available at HarperCollinsWe independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on the links we provide, we may receive compensation.
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