35 Books by Black Women That Should Really Be on Your Bookshelf

Get ready to find your next favorite author.

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Last updated In Buying Guides
a collage of book covers of books from black female authors
(Image credit: Various publishers)

Even if you've donated to Black Lives Matter, protested alongside your fellow citizens, and held discussions with those close to you, as allies, there is always more you can do to educate yourself about the lived experience of Black people in the United States. Look at your bookshelf and the authors on it; are you missing something or someone? If so, you've come to the right place.

We rounded up the best books from Black women authors—as they've been publishing prolific works for ages, from being some of the most iconic names in literary fiction to being some of today's best-sellers. The list spans genres, and there's something in the mix for everyone, whether you're a fan of romance novels, queer literature, inspiring memoirs, or just a compelling, life-changing story. Check out our recommendations below, and get ready to find your next favorite author.

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Quinci LeGardye
Quinci LeGardye
Culture Writer

Quinci LeGardye is a Culture Writer at Marie Claire. She currently lives in her hometown of Los Angeles after periods living in NYC and Albuquerque, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in English and Psychology from The University of New Mexico. In 2021, she joined Marie Claire as a contributor, becoming a full-time writer for the brand in 2024. She contributes day-to-day-content covering television, movies, books, and pop culture in general. She has also written features, profiles, recaps, personal essays, and cultural criticism for outlets including Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, HuffPost, Teen Vogue, Vulture, The A.V. Club, Catapult, and others. When she isn't writing or checking Twitter way too often, you can find her watching the latest K-drama, or giving a concert performance in her car.

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