14 Black Authors to Support in 2025

Unpacking New Narratives: 14 Black Authors to Watch

In the vibrant world of literature, these Black Authors are not just writing stories; they're crafting legacies. Each of these authors brings something unique to the table, from genre-defying narratives to poignant social commentary, reshaping our understanding of what literature can be.

1. Kacen Callender: The Master of Genre Blending

Let's kick off with Kacen Callender, a name synonymous with diversity in YA and adult fiction. Callender's journey from "Hurricane Child" to the forthcoming dark academia mystery "We Are Villains" showcases a versatility that keeps readers on their toes. "We Are Villains" isn't just another mystery; it's a deep dive into the complexities of morality, privilege, and the shadows of elite education, all wrapped in a compelling whodunit set at Yates Academy. Callender's ability to blend genres while addressing critical social issues makes their work a beacon for readers seeking both entertainment and enlightenment.

2. Nnedi Okorafor: Pioneering Africanfuturism

Next, we have Nnedi Okorafor, whose name is synonymous with Africanfuturism. Her upcoming book, where the protagonist, Zelu, is an author herself, promises to be a meta-narrative that explores the power of storytelling. Okorafor's work, like "Akata Witch" and "Binti," has always been about blending the fantastical with the cultural, providing a window into a world where African mythology and science fiction intertwine. Her storytelling not only entertains but educates on the richness of African cultures, making her an essential voice in speculative fiction.

3. Zakiya N. Jamal: Love Stories as Resistance

"If We Were a Movie" is a young adult queer romance by Zakiya N. Jamal, set in a historic Black-owned movie theater on Long Island. The story follows Rochelle "The Shell" Coleman, who is determined to become valedictorian and gain admission to Wharton. To enhance her college application, she takes a job at Horizon Cinemas, only to find that her academic rival, Amira Rodriguez, is her boss. As they work together, Rochelle's perception of Amira shifts, leading to unexpected feelings. Amidst mysterious events threatening the theater's future, the employees must unite to save it, while Rochelle navigates her evolving relationship with Amira.

4. K. Ancrum: Thrilling Morality Tales

K. Ancrum takes the thriller genre by storm with "The Corruption of Hollis Brown," where the line between justice and vengeance blurs. Ancrum's storytelling is raw, with a gritty realism that pulls you into the world of Hollis, a character whose moral ambiguity makes readers question their own ethics. This novel is not just about solving a mystery but about confronting the dark sides of human nature, making it a standout in the thriller landscape.

5. Nina Compton: A Culinary Journey Through Narrative

The literary scene wouldn't be complete without Nina Compton, who, while renowned for her culinary skills, has ventured into storytelling with "Kwéyòl / Creole: Recipes, Stories, and Tings from a St. Lucian Chef’s Journey." Compton's book isn't just a cookbook; it's a narrative journey through St. Lucia, blending recipes with personal anecdotes and cultural history. Each page is an invitation to taste, learn, and experience the richness of Caribbean culture, making this an essential read for anyone passionate about food, travel, or cultural narratives.

6. Jesmyn Ward - Sing, Unburied, Sing: A Novel

Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward is a haunting novel exploring race, family, and loss in the rural South. Through the journey of Jojo, his troubled mother Leonie, and a ghostly figure, the story delves into generational trauma, love, and the enduring search for identity.

7. Crystal R. Sanders: Unearthing Historical Truths

Crystal R. Sanders brings to light the often-overlooked story of "Segregation Scholarships" in her book, offering a historical lens through which to view educational access and racial equity. Her meticulous research and engaging storytelling make history palpable, turning academic inquiry into a narrative that resonates with contemporary issues around education and race.

8. Rickey Smiley: From Comedy to Catharsis

Rickey Smiley steps into a new realm with "Sideshow," where he uses humor to tackle themes of grief and loss. Smiley, known for his comedy, ventures into memoir, offering readers a mix of laughter and tears. His voice is uniquely suited to explore these heavy themes, providing solace and understanding through shared human experience.

9. Ta-Nehisi Coates’ The Message: A Powerful Call to Action

"The Message" by Ta-Nehisi Coates is a nonfiction work comprising three essays that blend memoir, travelogue, and writing insights. Coates reflects on his journeys to Dakar, Senegal; Columbia, South Carolina; and the Middle East, examining how narratives shape our understanding of race, history, and identity. He emphasizes the power of storytelling in challenging oppressive structures and advocates for writers to craft counternarratives that promote liberation.

10. Stamped: A Bold Exploration of Racism, Antiracism, and Change

"Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You" by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi is a powerful remix of Stamped from the Beginning. It explores the history of racism in America, debunking myths and empowering readers to understand systemic injustice and embrace antiracism.

11. The Underground Railroad: A Riveting Journey to Freedom

The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead reimagines the historic escape route as an actual railroad. The novel follows Cora, an enslaved woman seeking freedom, as she journeys through perilous states, facing brutality and hope. A poignant exploration of slavery and resilience.

12. Roxane Gay’s Hunger: A Raw and Powerful Memoir of the Body and Beyond

Hunger: A Memoir of (My) Body by Roxane Gay is a raw and powerful exploration of trauma, identity, and self-acceptance. Through personal essays, Gay delves into her relationship with her body, society’s expectations, and the complexities of living in a world that often stigmatizes difference.

13. Jessica Lewis: Queer Love in the Modern Age

Jessica Lewis with "Nav's Foolproof Guide to Falling in Love" offers a light-hearted yet profound look at love in the modern world, specifically from a Black queer perspective. Her narrative is refreshing, filled with humor but never shirking from the realities of navigating love when societal norms don't fit.

14. G.T. Dípè: The Poetics of Liberation

Lastly, G.T. Dípè's "Runnin' No More" is set to be a poignant exploration of freedom, both physical and psychological, through the eyes of a character who no longer wishes to flee from his past or his identity. Dípè's work promises to be a lyrical and intense journey, showcasing the resilience and complexity of Black queer experiences.

Supporting Diversity in Literature

These authors are not just writing books; they're expanding the canvas of literature, offering stories that resonate, educate, and inspire. Supporting these Black authors in 2025 means celebrating diversity in storytelling, acknowledging the cultural significance of their work, and embracing the innovation they bring to the literary world. Through their words, we're invited to explore new worlds, understand different perspectives, and perhaps, find a piece of ourselves in their narratives. Whether you're a fan of mystery, fantasy, romance, history, or culinary arts, these authors have something special for you, making 2025 a year to look forward to in the world of books.

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