Books matching: tackling racism
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- #1
Save:A chilling and unique horror graphic novel that uses its ghost story to explore real-world prejudice - atmospheric, relevant, and creepy, though not without its storytelling bumps. Recommended for horror fans who appreciate a little depth with their scares.
'Infidel' by Pornsak Pichetshote is a graphic novel that delves into the themes of social commentary and horror. The story revolves around a haunted house where pure emotions manifest in the physical world, particularly focusing on the impacts of racism and xenophobia. The plot is filled with layers of nuance and complexity, tackling hot-button issues in modern society while remaining true to the horror genre. The writing style is described as engaging, with a good balance between storytelling and conveying deep-cutting social commentary.
September 2018•172 pages - #2
Save:A chilling, brilliantly written novella that flips Lovecraft’s mythos on its head - short, powerful, and well worth your time, whether you’re a Lovecraft fan or not.
'The Ballad of Black Tom' by Victor LaValle is a Lovecraftian novella set in the 1920s, a period marked by racism and social unrest. LaValle reimagines Lovecraft's story 'The Horror at Red Hook' from the perspective of a working-class African American musician, offering a fresh take on themes of immigrants, poverty, and marginalization in early 20th-century New York. The book expertly combines elements of horror, racism, and cosmic terror, creating a story that gradually transitions from a realistic setting to supernatural occurrences, making the supernatural aspects feel all the more unnerving.
The narrative follows Charles Thomas Tester, a black man navigating through a white-dominated city while facing racism and police brutality. LaValle's writing style is praised for its masterful handling of setting and circumstances, as well as the complexity of the protagonist's character. The book delves into the horrors of racism and the Great Old Ones, intertwining Lovecraftian mythology with social commentary, creating a compelling and powerful story that resonates with readers.
People who move to New York always make the same mistake. They can’t see the place. This is true of Manhattan, but even the outer boroughs, too, be it Flushing Meadows in Queens or Red Hook in Brookly...February 2016•157 pages - #3
Save:A moving and gritty classic about street kids fighting for survival and dignity - unforgettable, but not for the faint of heart or those looking for a light read.
"Captains of the Sands" by Jorge Amado tells the story of a group of orphaned boys in Bahia who live in an abandoned warehouse and survive by stealing. The novel explores their criminal activities, hardships, yearning for love and guidance, and their eventual growth and departure from the warehouse. The characters are multidimensional, with some dreaming of becoming a priest, some being artists and readers, and one crippled boy. delves into societal issues such as racial tensions, interactions with outsiders, and the challenges faced by street children in Salvador.
Several times now this newspaper, which is without a doubt the organ of the most legitimate aspirations of the Bahian people, has carried news of the criminal activities of the “Captains of the Sands,...1937•286 pages - #4
Save:A layered, eye-opening YA historical novel with a memorable lead. Highly recommended for readers craving diverse stories or fresh takes on American history, even if the pacing occasionally meanders.
'The Downstairs Girl' by Stacey Lee is a historical fiction novel set in late 1800's post Civil War Atlanta, focusing on the life of Jo Kuan, a Chinese American teenager facing issues of racism, discrimination, and gender inequality. Jo, living with her adopted father, Old Gin, navigates through a society filled with suffragists, racial tensions, and societal expectations. The story unfolds as Jo works as a maid for a wealthy family while secretly writing an advice column, addressing the injustices and inequities of Atlanta society. The narrative delves into themes of identity, prejudice, and empowerment, offering a glimpse into the Chinese American experience during that era.
Being nice is like leaving your door wide-open. Eventually, someone’s going to mosey in and steal your best hat. Me, I have only one hat and it is uglier than a smashed crow, so if someone stole it, t...August 2019•390 pages - #5
Save:Code of Conduct is a brilliant, twisty, and emotionally rich romantic suspense with truly standout characters. It's thoughtful, diverse, and far from formulaic - definitely worth a read if you want something fresh and engaging in the rom-suspense genre!
'Code of Conduct' by April White is a gripping romantic thriller that follows the story of Shane and Gabriel, two unique and kickass characters with rich backstories. The plot is filled with mystery, suspense, and a touch of interracial romance, making it a refreshing read. The writing style is engaging, clever, and innovative, with the author seamlessly weaving in themes of injustice, diversity, and strong character development. The book introduces the readers to Cipher Security and its captivating world, where the characters navigate through realistic scenarios with honesty and depth.
I learned the benefits of intimidation early. When I was thirteen, I was five feet-nine inches tall and could wield a well-timed glare like a weapon. Now in my late twenties and six-one, I had bravado...October 2019•366 pages - #6
Save:A sharp, darkly funny tale of siegecraft and survival, with a dazzlingly flawed main character and buckets of banter - just don’t expect magic or a neat ending.
'Sixteen Ways to Defend a Walled City' by K.J. Parker is a fantasy novel set in a city under siege, where the protagonist, Orhan, an engineer, finds himself unexpectedly in charge of defending the city. The story is narrated by Orhan himself, known for his acerbic wit and sarcastic observations, which add humor and entertainment to the plot. The book explores themes of heroism, community, and the challenges faced by Orhan as he navigates through the siege using his cleverness and engineering skills.
I was in Classis on business. I needed sixty miles of second-grade four-inch hemp rope—I build pontoon bridges—and all the military rope in the empire goes through Classis. What you’re supposed to do...April 2019•385 pages - #7Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the WorldBook 2 in the series:Aristotle and Dante
Save:"Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the World" is a sequel to the beloved "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe." The story follows Aristotle and Dante, two 17-year-old boys navigating their love for each other amidst the AIDS pandemic and societal challenges of 1989. The novel delves into themes of love, grief, family dynamics, and self-acceptance, as the characters face new obstacles and find support from friends and family. The writing style includes emotional depth, exploration of important topics like the AIDS pandemic, and character development that resonates with readers.
explores the growth of Ari and Dante's relationship, as well as their personal journeys towards adulthood and self-discovery. It touches on complex issues such as coming out, gender identity, and the importance of support systems during challenging times. The narrative combines elements of magical realism with grounded emotions, offering a poignant and honest portrayal of the characters' experiences as they navigate love, loss, and the complexities of life.
October 2021•532 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Aristotle and Dante ) - #8
Save:A creatively bold, diverse, and magical adventure set in Victorian London, perfect for readers who love action, mysteries, and complex characters - even if it can get a bit tangled along the way.
The Bones of Ruin by Sarah Raughley is a gripping story centered around Iris Marlow, a black circus performer with extraordinary abilities, set in a world filled with doomsday cults, special powers, and a Running Man Steampunk Event. The plot is fast-paced, with intricate world-building and engaging characters that keep the readers hooked till the end. The story is described as a mix of X-Men and Heroes, showcasing diverse characters and LGBTQ representation, all while maintaining a sense of mystery and danger that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The narrative style of The Bones of Ruin is characterized by surprising twists and turns, with a strong focus on character development, particularly that of Iris. The book delves into themes of identity, truth-seeking, and the complexities of relationships, all set against a backdrop of magical powers, competitions to the death, and secrets waiting to be unraveled.
September 2021•496 pages - #9
Save:A lively, inclusive mystery full of heart and surprises - ideal for readers who want a fresh take on historical fiction, but may disappoint history purists.
'Dead Dead Girls' by Nekesa Afia is a mystery novel set in Harlem during the 1920s. The story follows Louise Lloyd, known as Harlem's Hero, who becomes involved in solving a murder case where young Black girls are being killed. The book captures the essence of the Harlem Renaissance era while addressing themes of racism, sexism, and homophobia. Louise, along with her friends, uses her intelligence and courage to unravel the mysteries and bring justice to the community.
The author, Nekesa Afia, weaves a captivating tale that not only provides a thrilling mystery but also delves into the complexities of societal issues prevalent in both the 1920s and the present day. Through the character of Louise, Afia portrays a strong Black heroine who navigates through the challenges of the time, showcasing resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
June 2021•337 pages - #10
Save:Set during the dark days of WWII in 1943, "Brittle Innings" by Michael Bishop follows the story of Danny Boles, a young shortstop who joins a minor league baseball team in Georgia. His roommate, a mysterious and monstrous first baseman with a hidden past, adds a touch of Gothic horror to the tale. Through the lens of baseball, the novel explores themes of growing up, friendship, prejudice, and the changes America undergoes during the war. The writing style is gripping and well-paced, blending light moments with uncomfortable scenes and issues, ultimately creating a moving and unsentimental narrative.
"Bishop starkly displays the period with its inherent racism and misogyny with only a hint of changes to come," seamlessly integrating elements of WW2-era minor league baseball, racism in the deep south, Frankenstein, and FDR. The book skillfully combines realism, historical context, and complex character relationships, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.
1994•543 pages
