Grab your next read with these books by African American Authors!

By Courtney Warren 

I have always been a reader. Thanks to my dad, I’ll read anything by anyone. I’ve told this story before, but, once I became a teacher, a wonderful young man asked me, “Mrs. Warren, why don’t read we read any books about black kids? Or by black people?” That brilliant student has since graduated, but his words stuck with me, and I have always made it a point to diversify my book list. All children should be able to see themselves in books. All children should be able to be the pirate, the superhero, the wizard, the detective, or the star. 

Here are some great reads I’ve recently found by African American authors and featured African American main characters. 

The Marvellers, by Dhonielle Clayton
Quick Take: Eleven-year-old Ella Durand is the first Conjuror to attend the Arcanum Training Institute, a magic school in the clouds where Marvellers from around the world practice...When a dangerous criminal known as the Ace of Anarchy escapes prison, tensions grow in the Marvellian world and Ella becomes the target of suspicion. Worse, Masterji Thakur mysteriously disappears while away on a research trip. With the help of her friends and her own growing powers, Ella must find a way to clear her family’s name and track down her mentor before it’s too late.

Look Both Ways, by Jason Reynolds 
Quick Take: This story was going to begin like all the best stories. With a school bus falling from the sky. But no one saw it happen. They were all too busy—
Talking about boogers. Stealing pocket change. Skateboarding. Wiping out. Braving up. Executing complicated handshakes. Planning an escape. Making jokes. Lotioning up. Finding comfort. But mostly, too busy walking home.
Jason Reynolds conjures ten tales (one per block) about what happens after the dismissal bell rings, and brilliantly weaves them into one wickedly funny, piercingly poignant look at the detours we face on the walk home, and in life.

The Personal Librarian, by M. Benedict and V. Christopher Murrary
Quick Take: According to some scientists there is such as thing as too many books. Belle da Costa Greene would like to have a word. 

Take My Hand, by Dolen Perkins Valdez
Quick Take: The moving story of a fiercely protective nurse who will stop at noting to get justice for the girls in her charge. 

Booked, by Kwame Alexander
Quick Take: Twelve-year-old Nick learns the power of words as he wrestles with problems at home, stands up to a bully, and tries to impress the girl of his dreams. Helping him along are his best friend and sometimes teammate Coby, and The Mac, a rapping librarian who gives Nick inspiring books to read.