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. Salvage the Bones

   

   Set in a poor rural community in Mississippi, this novel follows the story of a pregnant teenage girl named Esch and her three brothers as they navigate their lives in the days leading up to Hurricane Katrina. Their mother is dead and their father is a neglectful alcoholic, leaving the siblings to fend for themselves. The book explores themes of poverty, racism, and survival, showcasing the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

   The 1367th Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon

2. 2. Sing, Unburied, Sing

   

   The novel explores the journey of a 13-year-old boy, his drug-addicted mother, and his baby sister as they travel through Mississippi to pick up their white father from the state penitentiary. The story is steeped in the harsh realities of poverty, racism, and struggle, and is further complicated by the presence of a ghost from the family's past. It's a haunting tale about the legacy of trauma and the power of family ties.

   The 1648th Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon

3. 3. Men We Reaped

   A Memoir

   

   This memoir is a poignant exploration of the author's life growing up in a poor, rural, predominantly black community in the Southern United States, and the tragic deaths of five young men close to her, including her brother. Through her personal experiences, the author provides a powerful critique of systemic and institutional racism, poverty, and the lack of opportunities for black men in America. The narrative weaves together these stories of loss, revealing the devastating impact of societal inequities on marginalized communities.

   The 1750th Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon

4. 4. Let Us Descend

   A Novel

   

   "Let Us Descend" follows the journey of Annis, a young enslaved girl, as she navigates the brutal realities of American slavery in the years leading up to the Civil War. Sold by her father, who is also her enslaver, Annis embarks on a harrowing journey from the rice fields of the Carolinas to the slave markets of New Orleans, eventually reaching a Louisiana sugar plantation. Throughout her ordeal, Annis finds solace in her memories and the stories of her African warrior grandmother. She connects with a world beyond her immediate reality, filled with spirits and myths that offer both comfort and challenge. This novel explores themes of resilience, identity, and the enduring spirit of those who lived through one of history's darkest periods. Set against the backdrop of the American South's rich yet unforgiving landscapes, "Let Us Descend" is a poignant tale of survival, transformation, and the quest for freedom.

   The 14165th Greatest Book of All Time

   Purchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
5. 5. The Fire This Time

   A New Generation Speaks About Race

   

   This compelling anthology brings together a diverse group of contemporary voices to explore the enduring legacy of racism and the ongoing struggle for racial justice in America. Through a series of essays, poems, and reflections, the contributors delve into personal experiences, historical contexts, and cultural critiques, offering a poignant and multifaceted examination of the Black experience. The collection serves as both a tribute to past civil rights movements and a call to action for future generations, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue, understanding, and change in the face of systemic inequality.

6. 6. Spev Duchov

   

   null

7. 7. The Best American Short Stories 2021

   The Best American Series

   

   This anthology presents a diverse collection of short stories that capture the essence of contemporary American life, showcasing a wide range of voices and experiences. Each story delves into the complexities of human relationships, societal challenges, and personal introspection, offering readers a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of identity and belonging. The narratives are rich with emotion and insight, reflecting the current cultural and social landscape, while also exploring timeless themes of love, loss, and resilience. Through these compelling tales, the collection invites readers to ponder the intricacies of the human condition.

8. 8. Mother Swamp

   

   Set against the haunting backdrop of the Mississippi swamps, this evocative narrative weaves a tale of resilience, identity, and the unyielding bonds of family. The story follows a young protagonist as they navigate the complexities of their heritage, grappling with the ghosts of the past while seeking a path forward. Rich in lyrical prose and vivid imagery, the narrative explores themes of loss, redemption, and the enduring power of nature, painting a poignant portrait of life in the American South.

9. 9. Navigate Your Stars

   A powerful reflection on the value of hard work and the importance of respect for others

   

   In this poignant and inspiring work, the author shares a heartfelt reflection on the power of perseverance, education, and the pursuit of dreams. Drawing from personal experiences and the challenges faced growing up in a small Mississippi town, the narrative emphasizes the importance of resilience and determination in overcoming obstacles. Through eloquent prose and evocative illustrations, the book serves as a motivational guide, encouraging readers to embrace their potential and navigate the complexities of life with courage and hope.

   Purchase from Bookshop.org