40+ Emerging and Indie Books by Black Authors

Looking for books by Black authors? Look no further. Whether you’re after powerful memoirs, joyful children’s stories, or inspiring self-help reads, this list has something for every reader. From debut authors to celebrated voices, each title offers a unique perspective—and a story worth sharing.

The best thing about our list? Many of these books are either self-published, in pre-order, or not yet widely known—offering a fantastic way to spotlight new voices.

Memoir Picks

• Tracey Michae’l Lewis-Giggetts – The Black Joy Playbook (Pre-order)
  A guided journal to help you rediscover and cultivate joy in your daily life.
• Elgin Charles – By the Way: A Memoir
  An authentic chronicle from the “Emperor of Hair” exploring identity and purpose.
• Steve Jones – Hollywood Confidential
  Entertainment industry insights on personal success, with celebrity stories included.
• Jamie Watkins – My Peace of Happy
  A self-love journey centered on happiness, purpose, and success.
• Bieunkah Anwojue – A Work of Art (Coming Soon)
• Chante Griffin – Loving Your Black Neighbor as Yourself
• Quashaunda & Wilber Kitchens – How Badly Do You Want It?
  A candid guide to passion and partnership in marriage.
• Larry W. Robinson – Sacred Steps: A Faith-Filled Journey Through Transition Into Eternity
  Uplifting reflections on legacy, loss, and living with purpose.
• Kirahvi Bello – Hooked on You
• Ashley Brittany – Do That Sh!t
• Rachel Rodgers – We Should All Be Millionaires
  A financial wake-up call for women—especially women of color—who are ready to build wealth unapologetically.

Children’s Books & Young Adult

• Arika Parr & Ave Johnson – But What Can You Do?
• Luvvie Ajayi Jones – Little Troublemaker Makes a Mess
  A children’s book with a bold message about speaking up and standing out.
• Tonya Abari – My Hair, My Crown & Let’s Celebrate Juneteenth
  Joyful, educational, and beautifully illustrated.
• April Showers – Afro Unicorn Books
  A magical series celebrating uniqueness and confidence.
• Lateefah Simpsons – Children’s Book Series
• Valerie Thompkins – Girls Like Me
• Jennifer Miller-Joseph – Grandpa’s Love Never Changes
• Victoria Monét – Everywhere You Are
  A melodic picture book to soothe little ones into sweet slumber.
• Dr. Max O., M.D. – Curious Rosie: A Trip to the Hospital
  An adventurous young girl explores the hospital and discovers the diverse array of women physicians caring for their community.
• Lawrencia Lockhart – Kids Can Pray Too
• Kim Johnson – The Color of a Lie
• Carol Weatherford – KIN: Rooted in Hope
  An emotional and important picture book that honors family history and resilience.

Fiction & Bestselling Novels (not Indie or Emerging – but definitely must-reads):

• Brit Bennett – The Vanishing Half
• Liz Bullard – Sleeping Beauty
• Viola Davis & James Patterson – Judge Stone
• Tayari Jones – An American Marriage
  A heartbreaking and beautiful novel about love, injustice, and second chances.
• Colson Whitehead – Harlem Shuffle
• Tomi Adeyemi – Children of Blood and Bone
• Octavia E. Butler – Kindred
• Jacqueline Woodson – Red at the Bone
• Zakiya Dalila Harris – The Other Black Girl

Want to discover more books by Black authors? Follow and shop their books through indie bookstores, author sites, or Bookshop.org when possible. Every purchase makes a difference. To see all our previous book lists, visit our Books homepage here.