Juneteenth honors the end of slavery in America. It occurs on June 19 each year. It is highly recommended that you read Black authors' numerous powerful and distinctive voices writing on identity, power, and freedom.

Juneteenth is a day to honor and celebrate the contributions made by Black writers to society today, not merely to commemorate the past. This carefully curated list of must-read works by Black authors gives us a better understanding of and appreciation for the variety of lifestyles that Black people lead. 

The Color Purple by Alice Walker

Alice Walker's well-reviewed book tells the story of two sisters who remain close despite time and distance. One sister is a missionary in Africa; the other is a child wife in the South. This beloved American novel is incredibly empathetic and richly imaginative. It is brimming with passion, an intense love of life, love, pain, and inspiration. Walker's writing has become an important part of modern fiction.

The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison

In Toni Morrison's famous first book, Pecola Breedlove, an 11-year-old Black girl in America, prays for her eyes to turn blue. The story shows how society's ideas of beauty have destroyed her life, showing the fear beneath her desire and the tragedy of its fulfillment.

My Sister, the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite

The preferred and attractive sister, Ayoola, who may also be a psychopath, is the target of Korede's resentment. Ayoola's third boyfriend has died, and Korede - practical and unacknowledged - cleans up the mess. She hides bodies and prevents Ayoola from making social media blunders during her "mourning."

Though Korede dreams of being noticed by the hospital doctor, she must confront her sister's true character and decide how far she will go to keep her safe when he asks for Ayoola's number.

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Ring Shout by P. Djèlí Clark

Fear and bloodshed were spread by The Birth of a Nation in 1915, which helped the Ku Klux Klan grow. Maryse Boudreaux and her resistance team - a sharpshooter and a Harlem Hellfighter - stand against them. Armed with blades, bullets, and bombs, they hunt the Klan's demons, determined to send them to Hell.

However, a greater threat looms in Macon, intensifying the battle against evil. Maryse must stop the Klan before they unleash Hell on Earth and end the world. 

Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid

A confident and successful woman named Alix Chamberlain is shocked when a store security guard says her babysitter, Emira Tucker, took her Caucasian toddler. A witness filmed the event, making Emira look bad. Alix tries to make amends, but Emira, who is broke and aimless, is skeptical.

As someone from Alix's past resurfaces in the video, both women's lives are upended. "Such a Fun Age" delves into the complexities of transactional relationships and the meaning of family with sharp social commentary.

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