Looking for ways to celebrate the Black community all day, every day? Aside from supporting Black-owned businesses, you can also read literature crafted by famous Black authors, many of whom provide first-hand experiences and insights into the struggles, strengths, and successes of the Black community in their compelling compositions.
With works ranging from memoirs and poems to sci-fi and fiction, California’s Black authors delve into various issues such as racism, violence, and self-identity but also touch on love, hope, and resilience. Though this list is far from exhaustive, here are some of the best Black writers in the state who have made significant contributions to the world of literature and beyond.
Morgan Harper Nichols
A writer, artist, and poet inspired by real-life interactions and stories, Morgan Harper Nichols was destined to become an influential Black writer. Starting out as a songwriter, the L.A. native gradually shifted her interest from writing lyrics to poetry. After sending out a request on Twitter to get people to share their stories with her, she compiled them into personalized poems inspired by the people who reached out to her. Since then, the Black female writer has gained a loyal following online.
In December 2017, she released her debut book, Storyteller, which consists of 100 poem letters related to people, places, things, and seasons. But her best-known book by far is All Along You Were Blooming: Thoughts for Boundless Living, which she claims is the ultimate love letter to your mind, heart, soul, and body. Her works are perfect for incorporating into your summer reading list because the pieces are light and delightful.
Aaron Samuels
Critically acclaimed writer, speaker, and entrepreneur Aaron Samuels left his successful Wall Street career to pursue his passion as a writer. The famous Black author released his debut collection of poetry,Yarmulkes & Fitted Caps, in the fall of 2013. Examining the beauty and contradictions of his own mixed identity, Samuels incorporates gut-wrenching narratives, humor, and passion into his ground-breaking collection of poems.
He later went on to co-found Blavity, a media company in Los Angeles that serves as a platform for black millennials. In addition to receiving fellowships from the Cave Canem Foundation and Asylum Arts, the published Black writer was named on Forbes' 30 Under 30 list as a rising star in the tech and media space.