I woke up this week frustrated at what was happening on the news. How many more brothers, sisters, fathers, mothers, grandfathers, grandmothers, cousins etc, must die before change happens? Racism has been institutionalised and woven into societal structure that every time black people try to protest against it, we’re seen as opposing the system when we’re simply trying to fix it.
There’s so much that can be done to help and change the way things are. If you’re looking for a list of books to educate yourself on black history – whether you’re white, black or Asian – this is where I’ll highlight some great books that explain why the world is the way it is today and how you can help change it.
I can’t express how important it is to be educated on subjects that can be especially sensitive. I’ve seen a lot of senseless opinions that seem based off propaganda or personal opinions. We can march. We can fight. We can protest.
1.Natives: Race and Class in the Ruins of Empire – Akala

There’s not much I can say about Natives that I haven’t already said in my previous blog post. If you want a more extensive review check out: HERE
2. Me and White Supremacy: How to Recognise Your Privilege, Combat Racism and Change the World – Layla F Saad

3. Black Skin, White Masks – Frantz Fanon

4. Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race – Reni Eddo-Lodge

5. Between the World and Me – Ta-Nehisi Coates

6. The Autobiography of Malcolm X – Malcolm X

7. Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America – Ibram X Kendi

8. Black and British: A Forgotten History – David Olusoga

There’s so many more.
Start somewhere.
Be Accountable. Stop anti-racist frameworks.
Let’s start to change people’s views. One step at a time.
Thank you so much for the recommendations! I’ve been wanting to read more books by black authors or on black history and experiences for a while now and with the recent events I really felt like it couldn’t wait any longer. So for the month of June I will read one or more books by black author and your list is extremely helpful! Apart from educating myself on black history, I really want to become a better ally.
Thank you so much!! I’m so glad! And extremely happy that you’re looking into reading a book by a black author! If you ever need any help or just want to discuss certain things, feel free to get into contact! Just the fact, that you’re willing to try is an incredible start!
Thank you so much! I really want to know more about the struggles that Black people go through everyday or what they have been through in the past years/decades/centuries. I also want to know how I can help. It is horrifying to see that Black people are treated differently (and even murdered) just because of the color of their skin. I won’t hesitate to get into contact if I need to discuss things!
I did a quick tally of the books I’ve read this year and they’re overwhelmingly by white writers, which is something I’d like to rectify and this list is a great place to start, thank you for sharing.
Thank you! I’m glad it was helpful!