February is Black History Month — a celebration and powerful reminder of the contributions made by Black Americans to the fabric of American society. As we move forward, we remember the past and celebrate the future. Below, you’ll find a list of resources and materials — hand-picked by University Libraries employees — that uplift Black voices and share their compelling stories.
Book Recommendations:
“Black Bottom Saints: A Novel” by Alice Randall
‘‘A beautiful piece of fiction about Detroit’s legendary Black Bottom neighborhood, a mecca for jazz, sports and politics, and one man who reflects on the remarkable people who shaped it.”
“The Talk: A Conversation about Race, Love & Truth” by Wade and Virginia Hudson
Thirty diverse, award-winning authors and illustrators invite you into their homes to witness the conversations they have with their children about race in America today in this powerful call-to-action that invites all families to be anti-racists and advocates for change.
“Black Buck” by
Mateo Askaripour
A hilarious new novel from Askaripour, Black Buck follows Darren, a 22-year-old salesman and entrepreneur who is struggling with his self-identity. His mother only wants him to live up to the expectations of being the valedictorian at Bronx Science. But when Darren takes a job as the only Black person working at a tech start-up, he hatches a plan to help young people of color infiltrate America’s sales force.
“The Vanishing Half: A Novel” by Brit Bennett
The story of the Vignes twins develops over many years. One sister is raising her daughter in the same small black Southern town they grew up in and the other is passing as white in California, until their stories, and daughters, intertwine. Bennett develops an emotional story of Black history and family values, while questioning how one person’s decision influences and impacts an entire bloodline.
“Our Time Is Now: Power, Purpose, and the Fight for a Fair America” by Stacy Abrams
The political leader and activist looks into voting rights and how they uphold American democracy. Our Time is Now used extensive research to develop Abrams’ argument that voting rights are under attack today, challenging the fabric of our democracy.