We Suggest: Our Favorite Books by Black Authors

In celebration of Black History Month, we asked library staff to recommend books by Black authors they love.

From children’s books to classic literature and YA fiction, here are a few reads to add to your list.

Cold Spring

Amy Carroll, adult/teen programming coordinator, recommends:

 

Dream Big Little One by Vashti Harrison

“It’s a lovely board book adaptation of Vashti Harrison’s Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History, which is made for little ones who aren’t ready to settle in for a longer read.”

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Newport

Leah Byars, collection services assistant, recommends:

 

The Weight of the Stars by Kayla Ancrum

“K. Ancrum’s books are beautifully written and her characters are so lovable. The Weight of the Stars is my favorite of her works. It’s about Ryann Bird, a teenage orphan taking care of both her younger brother and his infant son. She thinks her future is limited by her current circumstances until she meets Alexandria, a prickly girl with whom she shares a fascination with space.”

Lisa Kuhn, patron services assistant, recommends:

 

The Field Guide to the North American Teenager by Ben Phillipe

“It’s funny and the main character is relatable in a snarky, introverted kind of way.”

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Rodney Harris, patron services assistant, recommends:

 

New Kid by Jerry Craft

“This graphic novel tells the story of Jordan Banks, who experiences culture shock when he first enrolls at a private school. It shows how even though he doesn’t necessarily want to attend, once he makes friends he can eventually enjoy where he is at.”

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Toni Reinke, patron services assistant, recommends:

 

Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly

“I love history and finding out about events that are not written about in the textbooks. These women were amazing on so many levels.”

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Carrico/Fort Thomas

Jennifer Gooch, children’s services librarian, recommends:

 

Ghost by Jason Reynolds 

“Jason Reynolds’ balance of humor, written flow and ability to drop you into the character’s lives is amazing. Ghost follows a boy with amazing running abilities learning how to keep his tough past from messing up his future. Another one of his books, Long Way Down, is a quick, tense read told in narrative verse. But really, I’d suggest any Reynolds writes!”

Outreach Services

Kelsey Stratton, adult outreach services assistant, recommends:

 

Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

“It offers a deep portrayal of the American South and one woman’s journey to find
the freedom and power within herself. Sometimes gritty, sometimes soft, always
honest.”

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