My top 5 books so far this year.
This year I’ve been reading more then I ever have. I’ve kind of become obsessed really. Why you might ask? For one, reading for me is an educational tool. Some people spend money on classes and lessons. I spend money on books. And secondly, reading is part of my self care routine. I think of reading like “watering a plant”. My mind is the plant and the books are water. Pushing you to grow to be my best self. From January to July I’ve read 15 books. Here are my top 5 this year so far.
All About Love By: Bell Hooks
Bell Hooks “All About Love” is just that. Hooks gives you new ways to think about love in just romantic relationships but in every meaningful relationship in your life. This book forces us to ask ourselves the question, “Are we living a life leading with true love in its purest form?”
"Love is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect and trust."-Bell Hooks
The Fire Next Time By: James Baldwin
James Baldwin is, in my opinion, one of the most profilic writers are our time. James work always brought necessary attention to the racial divide of our country and with “The Fire Next Time” it was no different. The books combines 2 essays Written by James during a time when segregation between blacks and whites was at its prime. His hope with these essay was to reach white Americans and stress to them the struggle of black Americans walk towards freedom. Any James Baldwin book is worth reading especially for teen wanting a deeper understanding of black life during the civil rights movement.
“Colour is not a human or a personal reality; it is a political reality.”- James Baldwin
The Love Songs of W.E.B. Du Bois By: Honorée Fanonne Jeffers
By far one of the most well written books I’ve ever read, The Love Songs of W.E.B Du Bois is a MUST read. It takes you on a journey of an African American Family and their history from slavery, to civil rights movement, to present day. It’s a true highlight of black life in the American South. The story is centered around the main character Ailey and her search fo her family linage. The sub stories of her grand mother, mother, and sisters takes you through talks of colorism, family secrets, and true black history from the beginning. This is one of my favorite book I’ve EVER read.
“There isn't a true innocence for children whose parents are shackled.”-Honorée Fanonne Jeffers
The Piano Lesson By: August Wilson
One of the most important playwrights in history, August Wilsons “ The Piano Lesson” teaches us an important lesson about family and legacy. Although this is a play, the work of August Wilson is various opportunities to enhance the lens of our past allowing us a gain a sense of self worth.
“There's no idea in the world that is not contained by black life. I could write forever about the black experience in America.”
- August Wilson
A Long Walk To Freedom: By Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela will always be known as one of the most successful leaders to grace this planet. “Long Walk To Freedom” is a telling autobiography that takes you through the life of Mandela from a child, to his time and prison, to his win as South Africas President. It’s truly one of the most inspiring stories I have ever read.
“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others.”-Nelson Mandela