Top 5 Inspirational And Encouraging Books By Black Women

It may come as a surprise that there are a lot of stereotypes when it comes to black women and the books we choose to engulf ourselves in. From earlier days when black women would be written as jezebel characters, forever trying to ensnare a promising and highly sought after man in society into her bosom from the arms of another, to the nonchalant perceptions of the mammy, written without a face to put to all her hard work, disrespect, dedication, and criticism. Today, in the world of face masks that protect against every germ except ignorance, racism, and anti-feminism, we have authors that have stepped onto the stage to shed light on various subjects from the issues that plague black women, words of encouragement, as well as coming of age stories. These are the top 5 inspirational and encouraging books you can check out or recommend to a friend. All written by black women.

   1. Becoming by Michelle Obama

This woman needs no introduction but for all intents and purposes, this author is the amazing wife of former president Barack Obama. In this book, she has outlined the journey from her humble beginnings on the Southside of Chicago in a small house that was home to everything she cared for, to her newfound world of the white house as the First Lady. This book is uplifting and encouraging because it proves that any woman can achieve anything she puts her mind to with hard work, a good support system, and dedication. 

2. The Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes

This author beautifully captures the results of hard work and dedication, with her decision to say “yes” to every opportunity that life hands her. Known for her production of tv shows, such as Grey’s Anatomy, and Scandal, Rhimes comedically provides a way to be herself and grab life by the horns and at the same time make a name for herself.

3.   The Source of Self-Regard by Toni Morrison

   The late, great Toni Morrison channels her speeches, essays, and affirmations that were done in the span of four decades to bring her opinions about society that can be compared to today’s political and societal climate.

4.   The Hill We Climb and Other Poems by Amanda Gorman 

The youngest poet to ever recite at the presidential inauguration for Joe Biden, Amanda Gorman is a person to watch out for as her words are a breath of fresh air as her works tackle racism, feminism, oppression, and the African diaspora. Coming in with accolades from the New York Times, her books are already turning into bestsellers, getting foreword by Oprah, and being interviewed by Michelle Obama. She is scheduled to perform a poem, a first of this feat at the upcoming Super Bowl.

5.    I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

 Maya Angelou is a household name in the black community. From Still I Rise, Phenomenal Woman, and many more gems, this author has been the pioneer of words that literally leap off of the page. This book is the autobiographical work of Maya Angelou, who details her coming of age story in a somber, empowering work. This book has inspired countless people to become authors in their own right.

In conclusion, these are the top 5 books by amazing black women that are guaranteed to be inspirational enough to get you to finally try something new and encouraging enough to make you believe in yourself a little more.