Recently, I have been absolutely loving the plethora of fiction and non-fiction books that have been written recently by black women, especially within the UK. Throughout history, the literary contributions that black women have brought to the table have often been ignored and it’s such a shame. Black women, our stories, and our accomplishments are overwhelmingly vast and often overlooked, but sometimes it’s great to have a starting point.
Below is a list of recent books I’ve picked up that I want to share with you all; these authors illuminate us through their work and leave an indelible mark on our souls. They’ve come up in conversations over brunch; they’re books we’ve gravitated towards in an effort to understand our political climate; they are books that inspire.
Brit(ish): On Race, Identity and Belonging, Afua Hirsh
Brit(ish) is a book about a search for identity and the everyday racism that plagues British society, both microaggressive and overt. The book explores the British and our awkward troubled relationship with our history, intertwined with anecdotes from Afua’s life, navigating society as a mixed race, middle-class woman from South London. Brit(ish) is a beautifully written, thought-provoking, insightful piece on a very important subject that affects us all in the UK, whether black, white, Asian, working class or middle class.
Slay in Your Lane, Yomi Adegoke and Elizabeth Uviebenene
I am in absolute love with this book. Dubbed ‘The Black Girls’ Bible‘, Slay in Your Lane covers a broad range of different topics that affect black women in our day to day lives. From education to work to dating, this inspirational and provocative book recognises and celebrates the strides black women have already made, while providing practical advice for those who want to do the same and forge a better, visible future. The book is incredibly well written, informative, reliable and insightful. Recommended not only for black women, but for anyone who would like to be provided with an accurate and well-informed perspective on some of the things experienced as black women.
What A Time to Be Alone, Chidera Eggerue
I have been waiting for Chidera to write this book since following her on Twitter almost two years ago now. Chidera is an incredibly wise young woman whose musings on everything from dating and men to living your best life have inspired and encapsulated many of us. Chidera brings many of her musings to us in the form of the beautifully illustrated ‘What a Time to Be Alone‘, a book that tells us that it’s not only okay to be alone, but that we should use that time to incite self-growth, and use it as an opportunity to live our best lives and practice self-care. This book is an inspiring and affirming read and is sure to penetrate the minds and hearts of those of us who feel as if we are never enough and who constantly question themselves.
In Intimate Detail, Cora Harrington
In Intimate Detail is a comprehensive and accessible guide to all things lingerie, from the intimates expert herself, Cora Harrington. The book is a complete guide to everything you need to know about shopping for, wearing and caring for every type of intimate – from stockings and garters to bras, knickers and shapewear. Not only does Cora give us in-depth knowledge on all things lingerie, but she also teaches us the importance of self-love, self-care and having boundaries within relationships. There are also some tips for us plus size gals as well, which I REALLY appreciate!
Scribble Yourself Feminist, Chidera Eggerue & Manjit Thapp
This woman REFUSES to get her foot off our necks! Chidera is back two months after the release of her bestselling book ‘What a Time to Be Alone‘ with Feminist activity book and journal, ‘Scribble Yourself Feminist‘. The book features plenty of illustrations and feminist quotes from around the world for you to colour in. You can also make your own Galentines day card and design your own wardrobe. It’s great fun and would make an amazing gift for yound adults!
Have you already read any of the books above?
September 6, 2018
Steph
Support Black Female Authors
