Books

Set in 1970’s Harlem, If Beale Street Could Talk centres around a young African-American couple, who have been separated due to a false accusation that leads the male protagonist; Fonny, in jail, while his new wife; Tish, bears the hardship of dealing with pregnancy. The story deals with corruption, while exploring the love story that falters to flourish given the impending state of affairs.

 

Themes: Corruption, Love

Explores the lives of two twin sisters who after leaving their hometown lead two very different lives. While Stella hides her identity and secretly passes as white, Desiree returns to her hometown to raise her daughter. Spanning generations and cities, this book explores the intricacies of race, and how physical appearance affects the characters’ treatment in society. 

 

Themes: Colourism, Family, Identity, Love

Following the life of Queenie Jenkins, a Jamaican British woman, this novel explores the happenings of mid 20s life in London, including misinformed career decisions, failed relationships, and consistent lack of self-worth. This book tackles issues many women face as young adults trying to define who they are in a rapidly changing world. 

 

Themes: Identity, Culture, Relationships

16-year-old Bri has big dreams of becoming a successful rapper one day, however her dreams are put to a halt when her mom loses her job, leaving the duo to face unforeseen financial hardship. This Young Adult novel explores grief, ambition, and inequality through the lens of a teenager, trying to get her big break in the hip-hop industry.

 

Themes: Social Inequality, Pop Culture, Adolescence, Ambition

In a collection of essays, Thomas uncovers the complexity of his childhood as a black child growing up in white suburbia, while dealing with his sexuality and Christian identity. Thomas begins to question life’s most looming questions, and uncovers the answers to these, through self-reflection. 

 

Themes: Autobiography, LGBTQ+, Pop Culture