This groundbreaking historical novel follows several generations of an African American family, beginning with Kunta Kinte, a man captured in Gambia in the 18th century and sold into slavery in the United States. Through Kinte and his descendants, the narrative explores the brutal realities of slavery and its aftermath, the struggle for freedom and civil rights, and the perseverance of a family through immense hardship. The story is based on the author's own family history, making it a significant work in the exploration of African American heritage and identity.

"The Confessions of Nat Turner" is a fictionalized account of a historical event, the 1831 Virginia slave uprising led by Nat Turner. The book is presented as a first-person narrative from Turner's perspective, exploring his life as a slave, his religious visions, and the violent rebellion he led against white slaveholders. The novel delves into the complexities of slavery, morality, and rebellion, while also examining the psychological trauma inflicted by the institution of slavery.

The book follows the life of Octavian, a young African American boy raised in a strange and secretive environment in Revolutionary-era Boston. He is brought up as part of a philosophical experiment by a group of rationalist scholars who seek to determine the intellectual capacity of Africans. As he matures, Octavian realizes the true nature of the experiment and the oppressive reality of his existence. His journey of self-discovery leads him to question the very foundations of the society that treats him as an object of study rather than a human being. As the American Revolution unfolds around him, Octavian is drawn into the chaotic struggle for independence, identity, and survival, challenging the notions of freedom and what it means to be a traitor to a nation built on the paradox of liberty and slavery.

"How The Word Is Passed" is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the legacy of slavery in America. Through a series of vivid and evocative essays, author Clint Smith takes readers on a journey across the United States, visiting sites that are deeply connected to the history of slavery and its aftermath. From Monticello to Angola Prison, Smith offers a nuanced and insightful look at the ways in which slavery has shaped our country and continues to impact our lives today. With a clear-eyed and compassionate approach, "How The Word Is Passed" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex and ongoing legacy of slavery in America.

"Empire of Cotton" by Sven Beckert is a comprehensive global history of cotton, exploring its impact on the world economy, politics, and society from the 18th century to the present day. Beckert argues that cotton played a crucial role in the development of capitalism, colonialism, and imperialism, and that its production and trade were intimately linked to the exploitation of labor, the growth of slavery, and the rise of industrialization. The book offers a fascinating and thought-provoking perspective on the complex and often violent history of cotton and its enduring legacy in the modern world.

"Grant" is a comprehensive biography of the 18th President of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant. Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow, the book explores Grant's early life, military career, presidency, and post-presidential years. Chernow portrays Grant as a complex and often misunderstood figure, highlighting his military genius and leadership during the Civil War, as well as his struggles with alcoholism and financial ruin later in life. The book also delves into Grant's relationships with his wife, Julia, and political figures such as Abraham Lincoln and William Tecumseh Sherman. Overall, "Grant" offers a detailed and nuanced portrait of one of America's most significant historical figures.

"On Juneteenth" is a memoir by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Annette Gordon-Reed that explores the history and significance of Juneteenth, the holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. Gordon-Reed reflects on her own experiences growing up in Texas and the ways in which Juneteenth has been celebrated and politicized over time. She also delves into the complex legacy of slavery and racism in America, offering a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of this important holiday and its ongoing relevance.