For book lovers, a good book makes an excellent Christmas present. There are so many books on the market that celebrate Black women and their greatness. There’s so much to celebrate about the brilliance and beauty of Black women. Here’s nine books celebrating Black girl magic to give during the holidays.
“Finding Me” by Viola Davis
In “Finding Me,” Viola Davis shares her story about finding purpose and her voice in a world that didn’t always see her. This moving memoir follows her story from a dilapidated apartment in Central Falls, Rhode Island, to the bright lights of Broadway in New York. It inspires readers to look at their own stories through a radical lens of self-love.
“We Should All Be Feminists” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Adapted from her TEDx Talk of the same name, “We Should All Be Feminists” is a rally cry for feminism in the 21st century. In this book, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie shares moments of her life where she was treated differently because of her femininity. She defines feminism and highlights the necessity of uncomfortable conversations around gender.
“In My Grandmother’s House: Black Women, Faith, and the Stories We Inherit” by Yolanda Pierce
In “In My Grandmother’s House: Black Women, Faith, and the Stories We Inherit,” author Yolanda Pierce poetically shares the stories of Black women that are often overlooked in a world that is hostile to their bodies and spirits. Inspired by the church mothers who raised her, Pierce explores the intersections of race, spirituality, trauma, freedom, resistance and memory.
“In Every Mirror She’s Black” by Lola Akinmade Åkerström
Lola Akinmade Akerstro’s “In Every Mirror She’s Black” is an exploration of the many dimensions of Black womanhood. Her debut novel highlights universal themes, like love, loss and desire, as it explores the lives of three Black women in America and Sweden. The author poses difficult questions about racism, classism, fetishization and tokenism without giving any easy answers.
“Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History” by Vashti Harrison
Serving as an inspiring read for Black girls, Vashti Harrison’s “Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History” pairs riveting story-telling with beautiful illustrations. It brings to life both prolific and lesser-known female figures of Black history to life. This book is excellent for kids and adults, as it highlights Black women who are icons, role models and leaders.
“Black Girl, Call Home” by Jasmine Mans
Written by acclaimed spoken word poet Jasmine Mans, “Black Girl, Call Home” is a love letter to the Black girl who is wandering and searching for truth, belonging and healing. In this poetry collection, she calls herself and all Black women home on their journeys through the pains and joys of Black adulthood in America.
“Seen, Loved, and Heard” by Tabitha Brown
If you are looking for a guided journal to feed your soul, influencer and author Tabitha Brown wrote the perfect book for you. “Seen, Loved, and Heard” is a way for women to get in touch with themselves. Through thought-provoking prompts, Brown encourages readers to consider their own life paths and how to live in more love and happiness. This is a journal for Black woman in need of encouragement, healing and kindness.
“Ambitious Girl” by Meena Harris
“Ambitious Girl” is the perfect read for Black girls to learn what it means to be a strong woman. In a world that can label ambition as “too assertive” or “too ambitious,” this novel challenges those stereotypes. It follows a young girl through the past, present and future, as she uncovers challenges faced by women and girls. The main character also dicovers how to reclaim the narratives meant to knock her down.
“Black Women Will Save the World” by Dr. April Ryan
“Black Women Will Save the World” is a celebration of Black women’s resilience. April Ryan’s novel explores how Black women have upheld democracy throughout history. The book highlights the role of Black women at the forefront of the nation’s political, social and economic struggles. “Black Women Will Save the World” is a celebration of the women who have disrupted the status quo to devote their lives to making the world a better place.