Tomorrow, the world unites to celebrate International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. In the spirit of education and progress, this list explores 5 powerful books that delve into race, identity, and the fight for justice. Dive in and discover narratives that challenge perspectives and inspire action towards a more equitable future.
Brown by Kamal Al-Solaylee
“Brown” by Kamal Al-Solaylee explores what it means to be brown-skinned in a world that often sees things in black and white. The author, who himself has a mixed background, travels the globe to interview people from many countries. Through their stories, the book argues that despite their differences, brown people share a common experience of being “other” compared to both white and black. It calls for a new way of thinking about race that celebrates the unique identity of people of color.
The Matter of Black Lives: Writing from The New Yorker, edited by Jelani Cobb
“The Matter of Black Lives” is a collection of articles about race in America, published in The New Yorker magazine. Edited by Jelani Cobb, it brings together writings by famous authors like James Baldwin and Ta-Nehisi Coates. Ranging from the 1940s to today, the book explores Black experiences in the US. It covers triumphs and tragedies, politics and art, and the ongoing fight for justice. This book offers a rich view of Black life and challenges readers to imagine a better future.
Between the World and Me Ta-Nehisi Coates
Between the World and Me is a heartfelt letter from a father to his teenage son. It grapples with what it means to be Black in America. Coates shares his own experiences of racial profiling and violence. He argues that racism isn’t accidental, but built into the very foundation of the US. The book doesn’t offer easy answers, but it’s a powerful call for understanding and challenging the racial realities that threaten Black lives.
Seven Fallen Feathers by Tanya Talaga
Seven Fallen Feathers is a true story about seven Indigenous students who died mysteriously in a Canadian city. They were far from home, attending a high school because there weren’t good ones on their reservations. The author, Tanya Talaga, investigates their lives and deaths, revealing how racism and a lack of support from the community may have played a role in these tragedies. This book raises awareness about the challenges faced by Indigenous youth and calls for change.
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi is a powerful saga that weaves together the stories of two half-sisters separated by fate. One becomes an English governor’s wife, the other endures the horrors of slavery. Through their descendants, we traverse continents and centuries, witnessing the enduring impact of their choices and the legacy of racism. Gyasi’s evocative prose paints a haunting portrait of resilience, loss, and the search for belonging across generations.
