Books Like...

'Pillow Thoughts' by Courtney Peppernell is a collection of poetry and prose that delves into themes of love, heartache, loss, and self-worth. The author's writing style is described as simple yet heartfelt, capturing complex feelings and emotions in an easily relatable way. is organized into sections based on different topics such as love, heartbreak, loneliness, and self-esteem, making it a thoughtful and thought-provoking read for anyone going through emotional experiences like breakups or seeking encouragement.

Amanda Gorman's book 'Call Us What We Carry' is a collection of poetry that delves into the Black experience in America, interwoven with themes of hope, unity, and historical reflections. Gorman's writing style is described as brilliant, unique, and masterful, with a focus on expressing feelings and ideas in a profound and impactful manner. The book includes a variety of poems with interesting visual presentations, showcasing the author's creativity not only with words but also with the overall structure of the poems.

In his travels around the world, as a valued slave and then a freedman, Equiano observes the shocking abuses experienced by less fortunate slaves, who are tortured, raped and murdered at will by their masters. This is a first hand account of life in 1700's from pastoral village life in Africa to capture, enslavement, purchased freedom, life in Europe, adventure on the high seas and eventually salvation in Christ Jesus. Equiano's life story is astonishing, inspiring, often charming and he tells it well, detailing his journey from being kidnapped as a child to becoming an accomplished entrepreneur who eventually buys his own freedom.

Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur is a collection of poetry and prose that delves into themes of survival, violence, abuse, love, loss, and femininity. Divided into four chapters, the book navigates through different pains and heartaches, offering a journey through life's bitter moments while finding sweetness within them. Kaur's writing style is described as raw, powerful, and emotional, providing readers with a glimpse into her personal experiences and struggles, particularly around issues of relationships, sexuality, and gender.

Go Tell It on the Mountain by James Baldwin is a powerful and emotionally intense novel that delves into the lives of the Grimes family in Harlem. The story follows 14-year-old John Grimes as he navigates his complex relationships with his strict preacher father, Gabriel, and his own spiritual journey. Through a series of flashbacks and prayer segments, the reader is taken on a journey through the family's past, struggles, and deep-rooted faith. Baldwin's writing style is poetic, raw, and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the characters' inner turmoil and the societal challenges they face.

Deacon King Kong by James McBride is set in a south Brooklyn housing project in 1969, portraying the poverty, racism, and crime affecting the community. The story follows an elderly alcoholic named Sportcoat who shoots a drug dealer, leading to a series of events that affect the entire neighborhood. Through a vast cast of characters, the book explores themes of lost dreams, community strength, and the challenges faced by African Americans and Hispanics. McBride's writing style is praised for its vivid dialogues, rich characters, and engaging storytelling that blends humor with social commentary.

Set in an alternate New Orleans in 1884, 'The Black God's Drums' follows Creeper, a young orphan pickpocket with the power to channel energy from the African goddess Oya. When Creeper overhears a plan to destroy the city with a Haitian weapon, she seeks a spot on a smuggler's airship to stop the impending disaster. The novella is praised for its engaging writing style, well-developed characters, and intricate world-building that combines elements of steampunk, fantasy, and alternate history.

'The Black God's Drums' presents a fast-paced plot with futuristic elements and spiritual beliefs from Black cultures. The story revolves around Creeper's journey to save New Orleans from a dangerous plot, with the help of airship captain Ann Marie and the guidance of African deities. The novella is lauded for its unique setting, strong world-building, and the blend of historical events and supernatural elements that captivate readers from start to finish.

"The Good Lord Bird" by James McBride is a historical fiction novel set before the American Civil War, following the story of a young slave boy named Henry Shackleford who pretends to be a girl to survive. He is taken under the wing of the legendary abolitionist John Brown, who mistakes him for a girl and nicknames him Little Onion. The novel explores the events leading up to Brown's raid on Harper's Ferry through the eyes of Little Onion, providing a mix of history and imagination with meticulous attention to detail and character development.

The narrative style of the book is described as unique, humorous, and entertaining, with a young African American boy disguising himself as a girl amidst the backdrop of pre-Civil War abolitionist movements. The story is told through the perspective of Little Onion, offering insight into the complexities of the abolitionist movement and the dynamics at play during that tumultuous period in American history.

Maya Angelou's memoir, "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," delves into her early life experiences growing up as an African American in the segregated South. The book courageously addresses sensitive topics such as sexual abuse, racism, and poverty, while also highlighting moments of resilience and strength. Angelou's writing style is described as lyrical and poetic, painting vivid scenes of events like tent revivals, picnics, and graduation ceremonies. The narrative offers a poignant insight into the challenges faced by a young black girl in the 1930s and 1940s, ultimately culminating in themes of empowerment and self-discovery.

The book is praised for its candid portrayal of Angelou's life journey, from her childhood in the South to her teenage years in California. Readers commend Angelou's ability to articulate her experiences with grace and eloquence, capturing the complexities of race, identity, and womanhood. The narrative not only sheds light on the hardships endured by the author but also celebrates her resilience and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. Angelou's storytelling weaves together personal reflections and societal observations, offering a compelling narrative that resonates with readers of all backgrounds.

'Chain Gang All Stars: A Novel' by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah is a gripping and thought-provoking story set in a dystopian future where prisoners are forced to fight in televised death matches for a chance at freedom. The narrative follows characters like Loretta Thurwar and Staxx as they navigate the brutal world of chain gangs, exploring themes of injustice, exploitation, and the dark side of human nature. The author skillfully weaves in footnotes filled with factual data about incarceration and societal issues, enhancing the reader's understanding of the American prison system and its faults.

The writing style of the book is a mix of captivating and mediocre, with some readers praising the engaging storytelling while others critique certain lazy aspects of the narrative. Despite this, the novel stands out for its originality and ability to immerse readers in a nightmarish reality show that reflects disturbing truths about society's obsession with entertainment and disregard for human life.