Black authors throughout history have contributed so much to literature.
From non-fiction to poetry to fantasy, Black authors continue to push the boundaries of creativity, inspire change, and challenge our understanding.
Appreciating and uplifting Black voices and diversifying our consumption, in general, allows us to learn and connect in ways we never thought were possible! Not just during Black History Month, but all year round.
One of the hopes of Vancouver Black Library’s Book Club is to foster a space to appreciate and connect over the knowledge and creativity shared with readers through books.
This Black History Month, consider reading a book from the Vancouver Black Library's reading list:
1. Sister Outsider by Audre Lorde (October Reading)
A collection of essays that inspire discourse about the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality.
2. All About Love by bell hooks (November Reading)
Thoughts and criticisms from bell hooks about our relationship with all kinds of love from a Western perspective.
3. Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin (December Reading)
Thought-provoking essays about racism and the African American experience through the eyes of Baldwin.
4. Black Writers Matter edited by Whitney French (February Reading)
An anthology of writing that explores the Black Canadian experience, identity, and community.
5. The Outer Harbour by Wayde Compton (March Reading)
A captivating short story collection touching on themes of race, gentrification, and colonialism.
6. The Wretched of the Earth by Franz Fanon
Fanon analyzes the dehumanization of colonialism and the relationship with liberation.
7. My Grandmother’s Hands by Resmaa Menakem
Menakem explores how racism impacts both our mind and body through the lens of trauma and body-centred psychotherapy.
Be sure to stop by the library if you’re looking for one of these books or have something else in mind.
Kyanna Shanice is the Vancouver Black Library’s book club facilitator.
The Vancouver Black Library was opened in 2022 to provide resources and workspace by and for members of Vancouver's BIPOC community. For more information about them follow @Vanblacklibrary on Instagram. The organization makes announcements about future book club meetings and other opportunities to be involved with the community.
