African-American Reading Lists

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 12/08

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.

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!

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

Interracial Fiction
From the 16th century to today, stories of different people struggling to live in peace. – Updated 6/08

Sci-Fi, Fantasy & Horror
Enjoy these speculative tales of space, magic and monsters written by African-American authors. – added 1/09

Street Fiction
Call it Urban Fiction, Street Lit or Gangsta Fiction, this is one of the fastest-growing fiction genres in publishing today. These books expose the reader to drugs, violence, sex and the gritty realities of street life in urban America. From classic street lit author Iceberg Slim to contemporary writer Terri Woods, Wake County has exciting, if controversial, books for you! – Updated 9/09

Women Writers of Color
Books by and about women of color.