Although we don’t need a reaason to celebrate Black voices in the arts, Februrary officially marks the beginning of Black History Month in America. This month, consider checking out books written by Black authors, including these fantastic options:

Currently revered as one of today’s most talented writers, Ta-Nehisi Coates has written an impressive and diverse array of books, comics, and essays. If you are interested in philosophy, nonfiction, or moving essays, I highly recommend Coates’s “Between the World and Me,” a stunning letter addressed from Coates to his son on his experiences as a Black man in America.

Additionally, if you are more interested in fiction, try out Coates’ “The Water Dancer,” a historical fiction book with a touch of fantasy that follows a young man escaping slavery while navigating his inner conflict and relationships.

A modern savant in philosophy and social thought, bell hooks is famous for the intelligence and care she brings to analyzing social constructs and human emotions in a uniquely academic way, maintaining personality in her writing while discussing the subjects with the respect they deserve. Her book “All About Love” delves into human society’s culture of love in the present day and how that alters our expectations in relationships, while also offering solutions for the dangers she identifies.

I personally do not read too much philosophy, but hooks’ writing is easy to engage with, and the unique eloquence she brings when talking about such a universal subject makes it interesting and easily understood.

If you are interested in fantasy, Tomi Adeyemi’s “Children of Blood and Bone” is a fantastic young-adult book based on Nigerian mythology. Set in a kingdom named Orïsha, this book follows teenager Zélie Adebola, who must go on a quest to restore magic to her world while out-running the ruthless, anti-magic crown prince. It even has a sequel!

Lastly, for my fellow science fiction fans, check out Octavia E. Butler’s “Parable of the Sower,” the first in a series of sci-fi, dystopian novels with relevant themes of environmentalism and human response to unprecedented change.

Widely considered a modern classic, this book has been known to interest fans of all genres, with such incredible writing and worldbuilding that anyone could enjoy it.

Whether it’s reading these books, purchasing products from Black-owned businesses, or educating yourself on Black culture and history in America, seek out ways to show support for the African American community in honor of Black History Month!