It’s Black History Month in the UK and Ireland again. This year, the theme is Reclaiming Narratives, recognising and correcting the narratives around black history and black culture. The focus is on shining a brighter light on our stories, allegories, and history.
For almost 10 years, I have focused on reading books by black authors. This year, I made a resolution to read at least one book a month, with all those books being by black authors. I’ve compiled a list of 5 of my favourite books by black authors this year, in no particular order:
In this short novel, Akwaeke takes us through the shadows of Lagos nightlife. A woman’s decision leads to a domino effect of chaos and debauchery. Set in a ‘New Lagos’, this novel takes us through the lives of friends who become entangled in a dramatic mess. I enjoyed the new world this novel opened me up to, introducing a story I’ve never encountered before.
Other books by Akwaeke Emezi: Freshwater, Pet, The Death of Vivek Oji, Dear Senthuran: A Black Spirit Memoir, Bitter, You Made a Fool of Death with Your Beauty.
Obianuju is a bright, brilliant and educated young woman. In Nigeria in the 1970s, Obianuju and her two best friends, university students at the University of Lagos, are almost a minority. Especially with the stark comparison of her much more traditional mother. In the constant search for her mother’s approval, Obianuju rushes into a marriage with a man she knows her mother will view as the perfect match. Tomorrow I Become a Woman is a raw account of Obianuju’s experience with domestic violence, with themes of love and loss.
Other books by Aiwanose Odafen: We Were Girls Once.
Kambirinachi is an Ogbanje, and Ogbanje’s are not expected to live long enough to make it to adulthood. Against her nature, she grows up to marry the love of her life and give birth to twin daughters: Kehinde and Taiye. Francesca takes us through Kambirinachi’s turbulent childhood, and her children’s chaotic lives. It is a story of family & forgiveness, love & loss, and trauma & healing.
The comedic writer Damilare Kuku captivates her audience with yet another bizarre and funny title. Temi is a university graduate convinced that all her life problems will be solved once she gets a BBL (Brazilian butt lift) and moves to Lagos to use her new assets. While the title that draws you in is funny, this novel is quite serious, covering issues of body dysmorphia, rape and different family dynamics and issues.
Other books by Damilare Kuku: Nearly All The Men in Lagos are Mad.
Selasi and Akorfa are not just cousins, they’re best friends. But as is sometimes the case with best friends, they grow apart as they grow older. Peace Adzo Medie cleverly takes us into the minds of both girls, showing us the different perspectives of the breakdown of the relationship and making me unsure of where I stand.
Other books by Peace Adzo Medie: His Only Wife.
The Wonderful World of Minotaur 
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