Richard Wright

Richard Wright was an influential African American author known for his works that dealt with racial themes in the early 20th century. He is best known for his novel 'Native Son' (1940) and his autobiography 'Black Boy' (1945). His writings often explored the struggles of African Americans in a society dominated by racial discrimination and segregation.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Native Son

    This novel tells the story of Bigger Thomas, a young African-American man living in Chicago's South Side during the 1930s. Bigger's life takes a tragic turn when he accidentally kills a young white woman. The incident leads to his arrest and trial, revealing the deep-seated racial prejudices and injustices prevalent in American society at the time. The narrative explores themes of poverty, systemic racism, fear, and the effects of oppression.

  2. 2. Black Boy

    "Black Boy" is an autobiographical account of a young African-American boy growing up in the South during the early 20th century. The book explores his experiences with extreme poverty, racism, and his struggle to find his place in a society that marginalizes and devalues him. The protagonist's desire for self-expression and understanding leads him to a love of literature and writing, providing him with a means to challenge and critique the oppressive social structures around him.

  3. 3. Eight Men: Short Stories

    "Eight Men: Short Stories" is a collection of tales that explore the lives of African-American men in a racially divided America. Each story delves into the experiences of these men as they navigate through the complexities of their existence, facing racial prejudice, social injustice, and personal dilemmas. The stories are a poignant portrayal of their struggles and resilience, offering a profound commentary on race relations and the human condition.