5 Inspiring Books By Black Female Authors

Photo by Seyikunmi Adedeji

February is Black History Month—which invites us all to shift our focus to reflect on the inspiring stories, achievements, and contributions of black people in our history. And what better way is there to learn about this part of our history than through literature?

Books allow us to step into the life, story, and experiences of another. They enable us to see the world from a new, fresh perspective and gain a deeper understanding of someone whose experiences are unique from our own.

Here are 5 of our favorite books by black female authors, both classic and contemporary.

01 | I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

One of the most prolific black writers in history, Angelou’s gorgeous memoir tops many a book list, and with good reason. Filled with an honest exploration of the darkest moments of her life, poetic and beautiful prose, and inspiration to live a life of freedom rather than imprisonment, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings will stay with you long after you’ve read it.

02 | All Along You Were Blooming by Morgan Harper Nichols

Morgan Harper Nichols’ dazzling collection of illustrations and poems explores how even throughout the most challenging, most empty, most devastating moments in life, we were blooming. The reader is invited to take note of the incredible grace we have already been offered, and “stumble into the sunlight.”

03 | Beloved by Toni Morrison

Often regarded as one of the greatest female writers in history, Toni Morrison’s Beloved tells the story of a young woman born into slavery and escaped. Years later, however, she is still haunted by her unresolved trauma—as well as the ghost of her baby, whose gravestone simply read: Beloved.

04 | Holier Than Thou by Jackie Hill Perry

The world is fraught with disappointments, anxieties, and worries. But Jackie Hill Perry masterfully makes the case that God is faultless and holy (unlike us), and therefore, cannot sin against us—a truth that can offer us greater peace, trust, and love for Him. We can trust that He has our best interest in mind.

05 | She’s Still There by Chrystal Evans Hurst

Have you ever felt like you didn’t recognize yourself, the woman you’d become? Chrystal Evans Hurst has felt that way, too. By mixing relatable, personal stories with Biblical wisdom, Hurst encourages readers to live into the story they were meant to live, helping them to unearth the woman they truly are—underneath the disappointments of life and the denial of dreams.