African-American Reading Lists

* Note: Some of these lists are presented in .pdf format.  If you don't have it already, you'll need Adobe Reader, which is a free download.

African-American Detectives
Enjoy the mystery and see if you can solve the crime before these African-American detectives! – NEW 2/11

African-American History
Explore the history of African-Americans from the beginnings of slavery to the evolution of hip-hop. – NEW 12/10

African-Americans in Historical Fiction
From 18th-century Africa to mid-20th century, these historical novels all feature African-Americans. – Updated 10/09

African-American Romance
Romance is in the air for these African-Americans. – NEW 11/10

Chick Lit
Look here for sexy, sharp, funny books full of wisecracking characters or ridiculous situations, mostly involving work or dating. You'll also find a big helping of pop culture—great shoes, trendy drinks and hot celebrities. These young women are out to make their mark on the world—and to make you laugh! – Updated 11/10

Classic Fiction
From Phyllis Wheatley to the Ishmael Reed to Toni Morrison, these timeless authors and novels will enthrall you as you engage in a literary conversation around the emerging, extant and changing themes and issues explored in African-American literature. – Updated 10/10

Inspirational Fiction
All books are potentially inspiring; however, these titles feature African-American characters who overcome adversity or reach new levels of understanding, generally in a Christian or religious context. Whether they save themselves or get saved, count on these stories to uplift and entertain you! – Updated 10/10

Inspirational Romance
Love and church mix quite nicely! – Updated 2/11

Interracial Fiction
Stories of different people struggling to live in peace. – Updated 2/11

Interracial Romance
Difference make romance even more fun! – NEW 10/10

North Carolina African-American Authors – NEW 11/10
Read the works of African-American authors from our own state!

Sci-Fi, Fantasy & Horror
Enjoy these speculative tales of space, magic and monsters written by African-American authors. – Updated 1/11

Women Writers of Color
Books by and about women of color. – Updated 2/11