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. Brown Girl Dreaming

   

   This is a poignant memoir written in verse, detailing the author's childhood as an African-American growing up in the 1960s and 1970s, split between South Carolina and New York. The narrative explores her experiences with segregation, her growing awareness of the civil rights movement, her deep love for storytelling and her gradual understanding of her own identity as a writer. The book provides a powerful portrayal of a girl finding her voice in a time of social and political unrest.

   The 3217th Greatest Book of All Time

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2. 2. Another Brooklyn

   

   The novel is a poignant exploration of friendship, memory, and loss, set against the backdrop of 1970s Brooklyn. It follows the coming-of-age story of August, an African American girl who, along with her friends Sylvia, Angela, and Gigi, navigates the complexities of adolescence, the harsh realities of their neighborhood, and the unyielding bonds of friendship. As August looks back on her youth from her adult years, the narrative weaves a tapestry of her past experiences, capturing the joy, vulnerability, and resilience of young black girls growing up in a world that often fails to protect them.

   The 7801st Greatest Book of All Time

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3. 3. If You Come Softly

   

   The novel is a poignant exploration of an interracial teenage romance in New York City, where two high school students from different worlds fall deeply in love. Despite the instant connection they feel, they must navigate the complexities of their families' expectations and societal prejudices. As they grow closer, they learn about the power of love and the pain of loss, while confronting the harsh realities of race and identity in contemporary America. Their relationship becomes a testament to the endurance of the human spirit and the impact of societal pressures on personal connections.

   The 9972nd Greatest Book of All Time

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4. 4. Autobiography Of A Family Photo

   

   Set against the backdrop of Brooklyn in the 1970s, this poignant narrative delves into the complexities of family dynamics and personal identity through the eyes of a young girl. As she navigates the challenges of adolescence, she grapples with the intricacies of her family's relationships, the impact of societal expectations, and her own evolving sense of self. Through a series of vivid vignettes, the story captures the essence of growing up in a world where love, pain, and hope intertwine, offering a reflective exploration of the ties that bind and the journey toward self-discovery.

   The 10600th Greatest Book of All Time

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5. 5. Red at the Bone

   

   "Red at the Bone" is a multi-generational novel that explores the lasting impact of past decisions on the present and future. The story begins at a 16-year-old girl's coming-of-age ceremony in Brooklyn and then delves into the past, revealing the complex histories of her parents and grandparents. The narrative is a powerful exploration of identity, ambition, love, and the ways in which history and personal circumstances can shape a family's life.

   The 11492nd Greatest Book of All Time

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6. 6. The Day You Begin

   

   "The Day You Begin" is a heartfelt picture book that explores the feelings of loneliness, fear, and the courage to be oneself. Through relatable stories and beautiful illustrations, the book encourages readers to embrace their unique identities, celebrate their differences, and find the strength to connect with others, even when it feels difficult. It is a powerful reminder that everyone has a story worth sharing and that true connection begins when we have the courage to step out and be ourselves.

   The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time

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7. 7. Each Kindness

   

   The story revolves around a young girl named Chloe who learns a powerful lesson about kindness and regret. When a new student, Maya, joins her class, Chloe and her friends repeatedly ignore and exclude her, despite Maya's attempts to reach out. After Maya stops coming to school, Chloe's teacher gives a lesson on the ripple effect of kindness, prompting Chloe to reflect on her missed opportunities to be kind. The narrative poignantly explores themes of empathy, the impact of small actions, and the lasting weight of unkindness.

   The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time

8. 8. Locomotion

   

   In this poignant and heartfelt novel, a young boy named Lonnie navigates the complexities of life after the tragic loss of his parents. Through a series of poems, he expresses his struggles with grief, identity, and the foster care system, while finding solace in the power of words and creativity. As Lonnie learns to cope with his new reality, he discovers the strength within himself to heal and the importance of family, friendship, and hope in overcoming adversity.

   The 17120th Greatest Book of All Time

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9. 9. Show Way

   

   This beautifully illustrated children's book weaves a rich tapestry of history and heritage, tracing the journey of several generations of African American women from slavery to freedom. Through the metaphor of quilting, it explores themes of resilience, hope, and the enduring power of family stories. The narrative highlights how each generation passes down knowledge and strength, symbolized by the "Show Way" quilts, which serve as both a literal and figurative guide to liberation and self-discovery. The story is a poignant reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring one's roots.
10. 10. Feathers

    

    Set in the 1970s, this poignant story follows Frannie, a young African American girl, as she navigates the complexities of race, hope, and understanding in her predominantly black neighborhood. When a mysterious white boy, dubbed "the Jesus Boy," joins her class, Frannie and her friends grapple with questions of identity and belonging. Through her interactions with the new student, Frannie begins to see the world in new ways, exploring themes of faith, friendship, and the power of hope in overcoming life's challenges.

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11. 11. The Mis Education Of The Negro

    

    The book delves into the systemic challenges faced by African Americans in the education system, highlighting how traditional schooling often fails to address the unique cultural and historical experiences of Black students. It critiques the curriculum that perpetuates a Eurocentric perspective, thereby marginalizing African American history and contributions. The narrative calls for a transformative approach to education that empowers Black individuals by embracing their heritage and fostering critical thinking, ultimately advocating for a reimagined system that nurtures true intellectual and social liberation.

12. 12. Before The Ever After

    

    Set in the late 1990s, this poignant novel-in-verse explores the life of a young boy named ZJ, whose father, a professional football player, begins to suffer from the debilitating effects of repeated head injuries. Through ZJ's eyes, readers witness the emotional turmoil and challenges faced by the family as they grapple with the changes in their once-vibrant father. The narrative beautifully captures the bond between father and son, the power of memory, and the resilience needed to navigate the uncertainties of life, all while highlighting the broader implications of sports-related injuries.

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