Happy Black History Month!
From the whole team at Books2Door, we would like to wish you an incredible Black History Month. Here at Books2Door, we're all about celebrating stories that inspire, empower, and open doors to new worlds (and yes, we love a good box set while doing it). This month, we're spotlighting Black authors and Black characters who've changed the game, from epic fantasy adventures to powerful real-world stories that spark conversations. Explore with us some awesome stories celebrating black stories and voices.
To be young, gifted and black
Welcome to the space that does not get its flowers enough YA stories focused on young black characters. Why not read some? When magic vanishes from the land of Orïsha, Zelie fights to bring it back — even if it means facing kings, gods, and her own fears. Tomi Adeyemi's Children of Blood and Bone took the world by storm, and with its sequels, the story only gets bigger, bolder, and more breathtaking.
Sometimes you need a little feminine fury in your arsenal. Look no further than Namina Forna and her epic The Gilded Ones series. Enter a world of warriors, sisterhood, and rebellion. The Gilded Ones and The Merciless Ones are fantasy with bite, fast-paced, emotional, and full of women who refuse to stay silent.
Though if something a little more set in the here and now is your cup of tea, The Celebrating Black Voices & Stories collection includes more YA/teen picks with real-world issues: e.g. The Hate U Give & On the Come Up by Angie Thomas are super strong contemporary reads about identity, community, trauma and stepping up when your voice is needed most.
History has its eyes on you.
Black British history is never given its flowers; in particular, the Windrush generation has been integral in the growth of society in Britain. David Olusga takes the time to celebrate their contributions and lives in Black and British: A Short Essential History.
Akala reiterates this call of celebration in his part memoir, part political and historical polemic, Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire. Afropean: Notes from Black Europe by Johny Pitts explores what it means to be Black and European; identities, invisibilities, and inclusion. It spans travel, culture, and memory. Offers a nuanced look at Black presence in Europe.
We are so excited to continue to commemorate and celebrate voices that have revolutionised our world and created a better society. Happy Black History Month from our team to yours!