Continuing To Celebrate Black Voices

Posted on: February 7, 2024

It’s Black History Month!  Let’s continue to celebrate the rich past and present contributions and accomplishments of Black people (check out our previous Celebrate Black Voices blog post for more recommendations by Black authors) by uncovering the vibrant tapestry of Black voices through books.  From spine-tingling teen thrillers to fantastical journeys, moving wellness memoirs, and beyond, explore the aisles of Coles and stock up on these reads:

AND THEN WE RISE: A GUIDE TO LOVING AND TAKING CARE OF SELF
by Common

In this book, Common—the multi-award-winning performer, author, and activist, created a comprehensive program for addressing mental and physical health—and encouraging communities to do the same.  He shares his intimate journey towards finding peace and wellness in body and spirit, as well as gives his readers the gift of professional expertise.

TENDER BEASTS
by Liselle Sambury

Looks like Trinidadian Canadian author of the Governor General’s Literary Awards Finalist’s Blood Like Magic and its sequel, Blood Like Fate has penned another teen hit!  After her private school is rocked by a gruesome murder, a Black Canadian private school student tries to find the real killer and clear her brother’s name in this psychological thriller.  This book is on the list of Coles Most Anticipated Books!  Pre-order online today, and pick up in store for your teen.

REDWOOD COURT
by Délana R. A. Dameron

This author’s debut novel has been called “breathtaking”.  The richly complicated storytelling of one unforgettable Southern Black family, seen through the eyes of its youngest daughter as she comes of age in the 1990s.  Dameron reveals the devastation of being made to feel invisible and the transformative power of being seen.  Redwood Court is a celebration of extraordinary, ordinary people striving to achieve their own American dreams.  Coming very soon to Coles.  Can’t wait? Pre-order online and get it shipped to you or pick up in store.

SO LET THEM BURN
by Kamilah Cole

An instant National Bestseller, this Jamaican-inspired fantasy novel by Cole stars heroine Faron Vincent who can channel the power of the gods. Five years ago, she used her divine magic to liberate her island from its enemies, the dragon-riding Langley Empire and is now forced to choose between saving her sister or protecting her homeland. Interesting fact: Cole was originally a non-fiction writer for Marie Claire, Seventeen, and entertainment editor for Bustle magazine before making her way into fantasy fiction.

Do you have any Black storytelling recommendations?  Share with us the Black authored books you have read, making sure to tag @cloverdale.

~Gillaine, Marketing Coordinator

Images #2–3: @indigo