In mainstream media, most stories about Black people center around Black trauma and the Black struggle; but Black people deserve to be represented outside of their daily struggles. They deserve to be represented appropriately and accurately. The statement that “representation matters” is a true one, and Black teens seeing themselves as the center of a story that doesn’t revolve around racism is important. However, there are books that go further than the usual racism narrative, the Black History Month recommendations below highlight just a few novels that center around a more in-depth Black experience.

Mr. Scott’s Black History Month Book Recommendations

Between the World and Me” by Ta-Nehisi Coates

“Between the World and Me” is written as a letter to the author’s teenage son about the feelings, symbolism, and realities associated with being Black in the United States.

“The Love Prison Made and Unmade: My Story” by Ebony Roberts

A remarkable memoir of a woman who falls in love with an incarcerated man—a poignant story of hope and disappointment that lays bare the toll prison takes not only on those behind bars, but on their families and relationships.

Wisdom’s History Month Book Recommendations

“Legendborn” by Tracy Deonn

After her mother dies in an accident, sixteen-year-old Bree Matthews wants nothing to do with her family memories or childhood home. A residential program for bright high schoolers at UNC–Chapel Hill seems like the perfect escape—until Bree witnesses a magical attack on her very first night on campus.

“Ace of Spades” by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé

Talented musician Devon buries himself in rehearsals, but he can’t escape the spotlight when his private photos go public. Head girl Chiamaka isn’t afraid to get what she wants, but soon everyone will know the price she has paid for power. Someone is out to get them both.

“The Stars and the Blackness Between Them” by Junauda Petrus

Told in two distinct and irresistible voices, Junauda Petrus’s bold and lyrical debut is the story of two Black girls from very different backgrounds finding love and happiness in a world that seems determined to deny them both.