By Felix Lloyd
Every February, we honor the contributions of Black individuals who have shaped history, culture, and society. For me, one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate Black History Month is through books, especially those written by other Black men.
Here’s why.
When my wife and I were reading a book to our two-year-old son (now a high schooler) and soon-to-be big brother, he pointed to biracial characters on the page who looked like him and said, “That’s me, and that’s little sister.” That simple moment stuck with us—a reminder of how powerful it is for kids to see themselves in books. Inspired by that, we combined our backgrounds in education to create Beanstack, a reading motivation software designed to help readers of all ages find that same sense of connection.
There’s something profoundly powerful about engaging with the works of Black authors. Their words invite us to reflect, grow, and better understand one another. As such, I’d like to share a few of the many incredible works that have left an indelible mark on my journey as a reader.
Timeless Reads
The Autobiography of Malcolm X
By Malcolm X with Alex Haley
Malcolm X’s unflinching honesty in recounting his transformation from troubled youth to revolutionary leader makes this a timeless, thought-provoking read.
The Dew Breaker
By Edwidge Danticat
Danticat’s lyrical prose unravels the haunting past of a former torturer, exploring themes of violence, memory, and redemption.
From Slavery to Freedom: A History of African Americans
By John Hope Franklin
Franklin sharply analyzes the fragile progress of civil rights, reminding us to remain vigilant in the fight for justice.
The Intuitionist
By Colson Whitehead
Lila Mae Watson, an elevator inspector, defies tradition with her instinct-driven approach in this sharp, surreal tale exploring race, technology, and truth.
The Known World
By Edward P. Jones
A gripping tale of a Black enslaver in antebellum Virginia, Jones explores power, identity, and moral reckoning with masterful storytelling.
The Piano Lesson
By August Wilson
Siblings battle over a piano etched with their family’s history. Wilson’s play delves into legacy, sacrifice, and the weight of the past.
Discovering New Perspectives
While I cherish the above classics, I’m also drawn to works that bring fresh perspectives and contemporary themes:
Black Founder: The Hidden Power of Being an Outsider
By Stacy Spikes
Spikes shares his raw journey as MoviePass co-founder, offering both inspiration and caution for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Blacktop Wasteland
By S. A. Cosby
In this fast-paced thriller, a former getaway driver takes one last job. Cosby masterfully weaves themes of crime, fatherhood, and fate.
Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood
By Trevor Noah
With humor and heart, Noah recounts growing up biracial in apartheid South Africa, highlighting both injustice and a mother’s unwavering love.
A Lucky Man
By Jamel Brinkley
Brinkley’s short stories reveal quiet, powerful moments in the lives of Black men, exploring longing, regret, and fleeting connections.
Where Tomorrows Aren’t Promised: A Memoir of Survival and Hope
By Carmelo Anthony with D. Watkins
NBA star Carmelo Anthony reflects on his journey from Baltimore’s streets to basketball greatness, a testament to resilience and identity.
Stories for Every Reader
Black authors create works that resonate with readers of all ages:
Children’s Books
H.O.R.S.E.: A Game of Basketball and Imagination
By Christopher Myers
Jump In!
By Shadra Strickland
Middle-Grade
The Marvellers
By Dhonielle Clayton
Illustrated by Khadijah Khatib
Young Adult
Promise Boys
By Nick Brooks
Non-Fiction
I Came as A Shadow
By John Thompson with Jesse Washington
It Was All a Dream: Biggie and the World That Made Him
By Justin Tinsley
Poetry & Essays
Collected Poems, 1948–1984
By Derek Walcott
What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Blacker: A Memoir in Essays
By Damon Young
Listening to Black Voices
Sometimes, hearing a story can be just as impactful as reading it. Podcasts offer unique insights into the minds of Black creators:
- Why Fathers Cry by Kwame Alexander
- “The Blackest Book Ever: Derrick Barnes on Writing Unapologetically” on The Reading Culture Podcast
- Business Movers Podcast, Season 42: Oprah’s Empire
Celebrate Through Action
At Beanstack, we help libraries and schools motivate readers through reading challenges. This Black History Month, consider creating a challenge to both inspire yourself and bring your community together:
- Read a book by a Black author.
- Listen to a podcast or watch a documentary on Black history.
- Share your reflections—in person, online, or through a book club.
Black History Month isn’t just a celebration; it’s an opportunity to listen, learn, and grow. Through stories, we honor the past, celebrate the present, and work toward a brighter future.
Felix Lloyd, a former Washington, DC, Teacher of the Year and Dean of Students at SEED Public Charter School, co-founded Beanstack and secured an investment from Mark Cuban on ABC’s Shark Tank in 2014.
