Celebrating Black Voices & Stories

Celebrating Black voices and stories all year round is essential, and we are thrilled to share this journey with you, our dear readers. We hold these writers in high regard and invite you to join us as we explore our favourite Black authors. We hope to inspire you, and who knows, perhaps you might even feature in our collection someday!

It’s time to focus on agency, and we’re fully committed to this mission. So, let’s dive in and get started, shall we? For more recommendations and to discover incredible reads, check out our blog, Black History Month: A Guide to Must-Read Books by Black Authors, for a deeper exploration of Black authors and their powerful stories.

Young Readers

We believe starting young is crucial for nurturing a love of literature and shaping young minds. By introducing diverse perspectives and powerful stories early on, we can help instil important morals and ideologies from a young age. So, here are some books we think are perfect to build a foundation for them to grow into thoughtful, informed individuals.

Marv Collection by Alex Falase-Koya

Let’s kick things off with the Marv Collection by Alex Falase-Koya—a fun, action-packed series that will have your little ones glued to the pages! Join Marv, a comic-loving ordinary boy, as he discovers a superhero suit that transforms him into the next big hero. Perfect for reluctant readers, this award-nominated series teaches resilience, kindness, and courage through exciting, two-colour illustrations.

Anna Hibiscus Series by Atinuke

Are your children accustomed to stories set in the West? It might be time to transport them to a different part of the world—Nigeria, to be precise—with the Anna Hibiscus series by Atinuke.

Join Anna as she splashes in the sea, prepares for exciting parties, sells oranges, and even dreams of tasting snow! Through Anna’s big family and her adventures, young readers will be introduced to a rich, vibrant life in Nigeria. This series is a must-read, offering a beautiful blend of African culture and universal childhood experiences.

By introducing your children to books like Anna Hibiscus, you’re expanding their reading horizons and opening their minds to different cultures and experiences. Diverse stories like these foster empathy and understanding, crucial for shaping thoughtful, well-rounded individuals from a young age.

Onyeka Series By Tolá Okogwu

Now, here’s another superhero you’ve all been waiting for! Tolá Okogwu's Onyeka series follows a Nigerian girl with extraordinary powers. These exciting tales are filled with courage, friendship, and the magic of African heritage. Okogwu herself describes it as Black Panther meets Percy Jackson, and we couldn’t agree more!

Encouraging teens to explore stories like Onyeka not only sparks their imaginations but also introduces them to cultural narratives and perspectives. By reading diverse stories, they’re developing an essential understanding of the world around them—beyond their immediate surroundings.

Older readers

Now that we've explored some fantastic stories for young readers, let’s move on to captivating books for teens and adults. These are packed with complexity, imagination, and themes that will challenge and inspire older readers.

The Legendborn Cycle By Tracy Deonn

Teens craving a blend of mystery, magic, and a bold protagonist will be captivated by the Legendborn Cycle by Tracy Deonn. Filled with secret societies and ancient legacies, this thrilling series is perfect for those ready to dive into a world where courage, identity, and magic collide.

Angie Thomas Collector's 2 Book Box Set (The Hate U Give & On the Come Up, Age 14+)

Angie Thomas transcends the typical themes found in young adult literature. She boldly tackles racism, privilege, police brutality, and other pressing societal issues.

Her debut novel, The Hate U Give, stands out for its powerful exploration of these topics, solidifying her as a literary icon. Following this triumph, Thomas released On the Come Up, the compelling story of a young aspiring rapper grappling with societal expectations and personal challenges in her quest for success.

Noughts & Crosses Collection (6 Book Set) by Malorie Blackman

For those who enjoy dystopian worlds, Malorie Blackman’s Noughts & Crosses series flips racial power structures on their head, creating a world where racial hierarchy is reversed. This gripping series explores themes of love, inequality, and resistance, making it essential reading for both teens and adults alike.

FictionAdults:

Lilith's Brood Trilogy by Octavia E. Butler

For adult readers seeking a captivating gift or indulgent read, look no further than Octavia E. Butler's Lilith's Brood Trilogy. This sci-fi masterpiece blends thought-provoking social commentary with alien encounters, delving deep into questions of identity, survival, and what it means to be human.

Candice Carty-Williams 3 Books Collection Set

Candice Carty-Williams, the author of the acclaimed Queenie, offers a brilliant collection of works that explore the complexity of modern life. With wit, charm, and honesty, her characters grapple with identity, love, and the often messy reality of relationships.

Percival Everett's Dr. No, The Trees & James: 3 Books Collection Set

Percival Everett’s novels challenge perceptions and dig into complex themes of race, justice, and human nature. With works like Dr. No, The Trees, and James, Everett's storytelling stretches the boundaries of traditional narratives, making his collection a must-read for lovers of thought-provoking fiction.

At Books2Door, we believe that representation in literature is crucial for shaping a more inclusive world. By celebrating Black authors and introducing readers to diverse voices, we help build a future where empathy, understanding, and creativity thrive. With our Celebrating Black Voices & Stories collection, you’ll find the strength, resilience, and creativity of Black authors on full display.

Don’t miss the chance to discover these powerful stories. Browse our Celebrating Black Voices collection today and add these must-reads to your bookshelf!