russia has launched a full-scale war in Ukraine. Donate to support Ukraine and protect the world’s peace.

27 Best Books About Racism

Discover a diverse range of books about racism, shedding light on its history, impact, and ways to combat it. Expand your knowledge and perspective.

We're Going to Need More Wine

by Gabrielle Union

What is We're Going to Need More Wine about?

A collection of personal essays that explore the complexities of life, love, and identity with humor and candor. The author shares her experiences ranging from childhood struggles to the challenges of adulthood, revealing her vulnerabilities and triumphs. Through poignant storytelling, she tackles issues such as race, gender, and relationships, inviting readers to join her on a journey of self-discovery and resilience.

Who should read We're Going to Need More Wine

Fans of honest and humorous memoirs.
Readers who enjoy relatable life experiences and stories.
Women seeking inspiration and authenticity in storytelling.

Finding Freedom

by Omid Scobie, Carolyn Durand

What is Finding Freedom about?

This compelling biography unveils the journey of a modern royal couple navigating personal struggles and public scrutiny. Through extensive interviews and insider insights, the authors explore their search for independence, the challenges they faced within the royal family, and their commitment to social causes. It paints a vivid portrait of love, resilience, and the pursuit of freedom amidst the pressures of fame.

Who should read Finding Freedom

Fans of the British royal family
Readers interested in celebrity biographies
Those seeking insights on contemporary royal dynamics

Antiracist Baby

by Ibram X Kendi

What is Antiracist Baby about?

This engaging children's book introduces the concept of antiracism in a simple and accessible way. Through colorful illustrations and straightforward language, it encourages young readers to recognize and challenge racism, promoting the idea that being an antiracist is an active choice. The book provides actionable steps for children to embrace diversity and stand against prejudice, fostering a sense of empowerment and responsibility in shaping a more inclusive world.

Who should read Antiracist Baby

Parents looking to raise antiracist children.
Educators seeking resources on diversity and inclusion.
Anyone wanting to understand racial justice from childhood.

Here for It

by R. Eric Thomas

What is Here for It about?

This collection of essays explores identity, race, and the complexities of contemporary American life through sharp humor and candid reflections. The author shares personal anecdotes and social commentary, examining the trials of navigating love, friendship, and cultural expectations. With wit and poignancy, he invites readers to find connection and understanding amid the chaos, offering insights on resilience and the pursuit of authenticity in today's world.

Who should read Here for It

Readers craving humor and insight on identity.
Fans of personal essays and cultural commentary.
Those seeking relatable experiences about navigating American life.

The Memo

by Minda Harts

What is The Memo about?

This insightful guide addresses the unique challenges faced by women of color in the workplace. It offers practical advice on advocacy, professional development, and building supportive networks. Through personal stories and actionable strategies, the author empowers readers to navigate systemic barriers, claim their space, and confidently assert their value in corporate environments, ultimately aiming to ensure that diverse voices are not only heard but celebrated.

Who should read The Memo

Women of color seeking career advancement.
Professionals aiming to support diversity in the workplace.
Leaders wanting to foster inclusive environments.

The Three Mothers

by Anna Malaika Tubbs

What is The Three Mothers about?

This compelling narrative explores the powerful influence of the mothers of three iconic figures—Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and James Baldwin—on their development and the broader civil rights movement. By revealing their unique stories, the author highlights how these women’s resilience, values, and nurturing shaped not only their sons' legacies but also the course of a nation striving for justice and equality.

Who should read The Three Mothers

Social justice advocates seeking historical context.
Readers interested in civil rights leaders' backgrounds.
Fans of biographies exploring maternal influence on history.

Allow Me to Retort

by Elie Mystal

What is Allow Me to Retort about?

This engaging and provocative work explores the U.S. Constitution from a unique perspective, highlighting its historical biases and implications for marginalized communities. The author combines personal anecdotes, legal insights, and humor to challenge conventional interpretations, making a case for understanding the Constitution's impact on race and justice. This guide aims to empower readers to critically engage with America's foundational legal document.

Who should read Allow Me to Retort

Readers interested in civil rights and social justice.
Fans of constitutional law and legal commentary.
Those seeking diverse perspectives on American history.

The 1619 Project

by Nikole Hannah-Jones

What is The 1619 Project about?

This transformative work reexamines the legacy of slavery in America, aiming to reshape the narrative of American history by focusing on the contributions and experiences of Black Americans. Through a collection of essays and creative works, it explores the impact of slavery on modern society, challenging readers to confront the realities of systemic racism and envision a more inclusive future informed by the truths of the past.

Who should read The 1619 Project

History enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of American history.
Students studying social justice and racial issues in America.
Readers interested in perspectives on slavery's impact on society.

Between the World and Me

by Ta-Nehisi Coates

What is Between the World and Me about?

This powerful letter from a father to his son explores the realities of being Black in America. Through personal anecdotes and historical context, it examines issues of race, identity, and the struggle for justice. Coates delves into the deep-seated racism that permeates American society, while offering insights into the resilience and strength found within the Black community, urging his son to navigate a world filled with systemic oppression.

Who should read Between the World and Me

Parents seeking to understand race impacts on children.
Young adults exploring identity in contemporary society.
Readers interested in racial justice and personal narratives.

Four Hundred Souls

by Ibram X. Kendi, PhD, Keisha N. Blain, PhD

What is Four Hundred Souls about?

This collective narrative spans 400 years of African American history, presenting the experiences of both notable figures and everyday individuals. Structured as a series of essays, it explores themes of resilience, resistance, and community. Contributors from various backgrounds reflect on pivotal moments and movements, revealing the complex tapestry of African American life, culture, and identity while emphasizing the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.

Who should read Four Hundred Souls

History enthusiasts seeking diverse perspectives
Students studying African American history
Readers interested in social justice and equity

Stamped

by Jason Reynolds, Ibram X. Kendi

What is Stamped about?

This powerful book explores the history of racism in America and its impact today, presenting complex concepts in a relatable way. Targeted at young readers, it encourages critical thinking about race, identity, and activism. Through engaging narratives and thought-provoking questions, it empowers individuals to recognize their role in the fight against racism and embrace antiracist beliefs, fostering a more equitable society.

Who should read Stamped

Young readers seeking to understand racism's impact.
Educators aiming to foster inclusive discussions in classrooms.
Parents wanting to teach children about antiracism principles.

White Fragility

by Robin DiAngelo, PhD

What is White Fragility about?

This book explores the concept of white fragility, examining how white individuals often react defensively when confronted with discussions about race and racism. It delves into the social dynamics that perpetuate racism and encourages self-reflection among white readers. Through personal anecdotes and research, the author invites a deeper understanding of racial tensions and offers insights on how to engage in more meaningful conversations about race.

Who should read White Fragility

White individuals seeking to understand racial dynamics.
Educators aiming to address racism in their classrooms.
Activists working towards racial equality and justice.

The Sum of Us

by Heather McGhee

What is The Sum of Us about?

This insightful exploration reveals how systemic racism harms not only marginalized groups but society as a whole. Through compelling anecdotes and extensive research, the author illustrates the economic and social costs of racial division. The book advocates for collective action and shared prosperity, emphasizing that dismantling racism enriches everyone. By reframing the narrative, it presents a hopeful vision for a united future where equity leads to community and economic growth.

Who should read The Sum of Us

Social justice advocates seeking systemic change.
Anyone wanting to understand racism's economic impact.
Community leaders aiming for inclusive prosperity.

How Fascism Works

by Jason Stanley

What is How Fascism Works about?

This thought-provoking exploration delves into the mechanisms of fascism, examining how it thrives by fostering division and scapegoating. It outlines the tactics used by fascist movements to manipulate language, instill fear, and undermine democratic institutions. By analyzing historical and contemporary examples, it reveals how ordinary people can be complicit in the erosion of democracy through their acceptance of ‘us versus them’ ideology, ultimately challenging readers to recognize and combat these patterns.

Who should read How Fascism Works

Political science students seeking to understand modern ideologies.
Activists fighting against authoritarianism and hate politics.
Readers interested in social psychology and group dynamics.

Where Do We Go from Here

by Martin Luther King, Jr.

What is Where Do We Go from Here about?

This book explores the social and economic challenges facing America during the civil rights movement. It emphasizes the need for unity and collective effort to overcome racism and injustice. Through a series of essays, the author discusses the importance of nonviolence, community-building, and the pursuit of true equality, urging readers to choose between a future of chaos or a harmonious society based on shared values and cooperation.

Who should read Where Do We Go from Here

Social justice activists seeking inspiration.
Students of civil rights history.
Anyone interested in community building and unity.

The Last Black Unicorn

by Tiffany Haddish

What is The Last Black Unicorn about?

A candid and humorous memoir, this book chronicles the author's journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a successful comedian and actress. With her trademark wit, she shares personal anecdotes about love, loss, and resilience, revealing the struggles and triumphs that shaped her. Through laughter and heartfelt stories, she inspires readers to embrace their own uniqueness and navigate life's hurdles with confidence.

Who should read The Last Black Unicorn

Fans of comedic memoirs and personal stories.
Readers interested in resilience and overcoming adversity.
Followers of Tiffany Haddish's career and comedy.

Just As I Am

by Cicely Tyson, Michelle Burford

What is Just As I Am about?

In this powerful memoir, the legendary actress and cultural icon shares her journey from humble beginnings to stardom, detailing her experiences in the entertainment industry and her commitment to portraying dignified, complex Black characters. Through poignant stories and reflections, she highlights her struggles, triumphs, and the strong sense of self that guided her choices, offering inspiring insights into resilience and identity.

Who should read Just As I Am

Fans of inspiring life stories
Readers interested in Hollywood history
Individuals seeking empowerment and resilience themes

Minor Feelings

by Cathy Park Hong

What is Minor Feelings about?

This thought-provoking work explores the complexities of Asian American identity through a blend of personal narrative and cultural criticism. The author navigates feelings of racial alienation, invisibility, and the struggles within the Asian American community, while confronting broader societal issues. Through essays, she articulates the profound emotional experiences of immigrants and their descendants, offering insight into how these 'minor feelings' shape their realities and relationships.

Who should read Minor Feelings

Asian Americans navigating identity and culture.
Readers interested in intersectional feminism and race.
Anyone seeking to understand Asian American experiences.

Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man

by Emmanuel Acho

What is Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man about?

This thought-provoking book addresses race relations and systemic racism through candid dialogues. The author shares personal experiences, insights, and answers to difficult questions about race, privilege, and identity. By fostering open conversations, it encourages readers to confront uncomfortable truths, challenge their beliefs, and promote understanding across racial divides. The book serves as a guide for anyone seeking to engage in meaningful discussions about race.

Who should read Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man

Individuals seeking to understand racial issues.
Those interested in race relations and dialogue.
Readers wanting to challenge their perspectives on race.