10 Banned Books Written by Black Authors Worth Reading this Black History Month
As we celebrate Black History Month, it is important to recognize the rich and diverse literary contributions of black authors. Unfortunately, many of these authors have had their work censored and banned due to their exploration of sensitive and controversial topics. In this blog post, we will highlight ten banned books written by black people that have significantly impacted the literary world and beyond. From classic novels to contemporary works of fiction, these books offer thought-provoking perspectives on race, identity, and social justice. Their censorship serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for intellectual freedom and equity.
"The Color Purple" by Alice Walker
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of Celie, a young African American woman living in the South during the early 20th century. Through a series of letters, Celie shares her experiences of abuse, discrimination, and resilience as she struggles to find her own voice and place in the world. Bookshop >
"Native Son" by Richard Wright
Set in Chicago in the 1930s, this novel tells the story of Bigger Thomas, a young black man who is falsely accused of a crime. As he navigates the racism and oppression of the time, he struggles to find his place in a world that seems to offer him no hope or opportunity. Bookshop >
"Black Boy" by Richard Wright
This is an autobiographical account of Wright's experiences growing up in the Deep South and his struggles with poverty, racism, and the search for identity. Bookshop >
"Go Tell It on the Mountain" by James Baldwin
Set in 1930s Harlem, this novel tells the story of John Grimes, a young black man coming of age and trying to find his place in the world. Through a series of flashbacks, the book explores themes of identity, race, religion, and family. Bookshop >
"Their Eyes Were Watching God" by Zora Neale Hurston
This novel tells the story of Janie Crawford, an African American woman living in Florida in the early 20th century. As she navigates relationships and struggles to find her own voice, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Bookshop >
"Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison
This novel tells the story of a young African American man struggling to find his place in a society that does not see or value him. Through a series of experiences and encounters, he grapples with issues of race, identity, and the search for meaning in a world that seems to offer him no opportunities or recognition. Bookshop >
"Beloved" by Toni Morrison
This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of Sethe, a former slave living in post-Civil War Ohio. As she struggles to come to terms with the traumas of her past and the weight of her present, she is haunted by the ghost of her daughter, who died under mysterious circumstances. Amazon >
"The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison
This novel tells the story of Pecola Breedlove, a young African American girl living in a small Ohio town in the 1940s. As she struggles to find her place in a world that values light skin and European features above all else, she becomes increasingly obsessed with the idea of having blue eyes, which she believes will make her beautiful and loved. Bookshop >
"The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Malcolm X and Alex Haley
This is the autobiography of Malcolm X, a civil rights activist and leader who played a key role in the Black Power movement of the 1960s. Through a series of candid and powerful narratives, Malcolm X shares his experiences growing up in poverty, his involvement in crime and prison, and his conversion to Islam. He also reflects on the struggles and challenges he faced as a black man in America and the ways in which he worked to empower and uplift his community.
"Kindred" by Octavia Butler:
This science fiction novel tells the story of Dana, a young black woman living in California in the 1970s. When she is suddenly transported back in time to the antebellum South, she finds herself in the midst of a world of slavery and brutality. As she navigates the challenges and dangers of this unfamiliar world, she grapples with issues of race, identity, and the weight of history. Through her experiences, she comes to understand the ways in which the past and present are interconnected and the ways in which we are all connected to the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us.
It's important to note that books are often banned for a variety of reasons, including content that is perceived as controversial or offensive or for political or ideological reasons. While these books have faced challenges or bans in some locations, they are also widely celebrated as important works of literature that have significantly contributed to the cultural and literary landscape. Explore our full list on Bookshop.