Books Like...

A Black Women's History of the United States by Daina Ramey Berry is a rich and insightful exploration of the history of Black women in America, spanning from 1619 to the present day. The book sheds light on stories that are often overlooked or not taught in traditional education, providing a deep dive into the experiences, struggles, and triumphs of African American women and their enslaved ancestors. The writing style is dense and fascinating, offering an expansive knowledge of history with abundant political and social context for each time period covered.

The book challenges the inadequacies of American public education in teaching Black history, especially the stories of Black women. It is described as a gem that everyone can benefit from reading, offering a different perspective on American history through the lens of Black women's experiences. Readers are left with a clear understanding of the significant contributions and sacrifices made by Black women throughout history, inspiring a deeper appreciation and awareness of their impact on shaping America.

'Harvest of Empire: A History of Latinos in America' by Juan Gonzalez is a comprehensive exploration of the intertwined history between Latin America and the United States. The book delves into the reasons behind the south-north migration of Latinos and sheds light on the impact of US military and economic interventions in Latin American countries. Through personal accounts and historical analysis, Gonzalez uncovers the prejudice, discrimination, and challenges faced by Latinos in the US, while also highlighting their significant contributions to American culture. The writing style is described as engaging, lively, and informative, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the complexities of Latino immigration and cultural integration in the US.

'Never Caught' by Erica Armstrong Dunbar is a compelling narrative that delves into the life of Ona Judge, a courageous woman who escaped from slavery in the household of George and Martha Washington. Through meticulous research and storytelling, Dunbar paints a vivid picture of Ona's struggles, determination, and pursuit of freedom. The book challenges the myths surrounding the institution of slavery and humanizes the individuals involved in this historical period, offering valuable insights into the complexities of early American slavery and the moral dilemmas faced by prominent figures like the Founding Fathers.

Dunbar's writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the injustices of slavery while also highlighting stories of hope and resilience. By bringing Ona Judge's narrative to life, the book sheds light on the untold stories of individuals who made a significant impact on American history, emphasizing the importance of remembering and learning from the past.

'The Deviant's War' by Eric Cervini is a gripping account of the early history of LGBTQ advocacy in the United States, focusing on the life and struggles of Frank Kameny. The book delves into the battles faced by Kameny and the LGBTQ community, highlighting the challenges, activism, and spirit of the movement during a tumultuous period. Through engaging prose, the author brings to light the injustices, discrimination, and courage of those who fought for equality, providing a detailed narrative of a pivotal era in LGBTQ history.

The narrative not only captures the personal journey of Kameny but also intertwines it with the broader context of societal and political events, such as the Vietnam War, civil rights movements, and the Red Scare. By exploring Kameny's fight against discrimination and his advocacy for LGBTQ rights, the book sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of history, offering valuable insights into the struggles and triumphs of the early Gay Liberation movement.

"Stony the Road: Reconstruction, White Supremacy, and the Rise of Jim Crow" by Henry Louis Gates Jr. delves into the post-Civil War era in the United States, focusing on the struggles faced by African Americans for equality amidst the violent counter-revolution that aimed to subjugate them. Through a war of images and ideas, Gates illustrates the enduring racist stain on the American psyche, portraying how African Americans have fought against white supremacist and racist acts to secure their rights and humanity. examines the failure of Reconstruction in the South, the impact of Jim Crow laws, and the systematic oppression faced by African Americans in the quest for equality.

Clint Smith examines the portrayal of American slavery history by visiting various sites across America, such as Monticello, Whitney Plantation, Angola Prison, and Goree Island. Through different lenses presented in each site chapter, the book offers a unique perspective on the history of slavery, highlighting the strength, resiliency, and legacies of enslaved individuals. Smith's writing style is described as poetic, lyrical, and moving, effectively blending personal experiences with historical research to provide a comprehensive picture of the impact of slavery on American society.

Black Against Empire is a detailed and well-researched history of the rise and fall of the Black Panther Party, highlighting their method of armed self-defense, radical language, and their significant impact on the Black Power movement. The book delves into the party's origins with Bobby Seale and Huey Newton, their social programs, views on racial issues, and the challenges they faced, ultimately providing a comprehensive look at the organization's history during a turbulent time period.

'How to Be an Antiracist' by Ibram X. Kendi is a deep exploration of racism, focusing on the definition of racism and steps needed to combat it. The book covers various aspects of racism in society, including policies that perpetuate racism, personal journeys towards anti-racism, and the importance of enacting anti-racist policies rather than relying on changing hearts and minds. Kendi uses personal anecdotes, historical context, and critical analysis to provide insights into systemic racism and the need for policy shifts.

'Seeing Gender: An Illustrated Guide to Identity and Expression' by Iris Gottlieb is an educational and comprehensive guide that explores topics related to gender, identity, sexuality, and intersectionality. Through colorful illustrations and engaging writing, the author covers a wide range of subjects including queer history, BIPOC communities, social issues, and personal anecdotes. is praised for its ability to break down complex topics in a way that is accessible to readers of all ages, making it a valuable resource for individuals looking to learn beyond traditional gender norms.

With a focus on inclusivity and understanding, 'Seeing Gender' delves into historical and personal narratives to provoke thought and discussion on gender structures and LGBTQ+ issues. is not only informative but also thought-provoking, humorous, and visually captivating, making it a perfect tool for those seeking to educate themselves or others on diverse identities and expressions.