35 Must-Read 2021 Book Releases by Black Authors

From Cicely Tyson's 'Just as I Am' to Amanda Gorman's debut poetry collection.

35 Must-Read 2021 Book Releases by Black Authors
(Image credit: Design By Morgan McMullen)

Books helped us through the chaos of 2020, and in 2021 there are even more releases to offer us solace and comfort. However, despite our love for reading, many book lovers do not see ourselves represented in the books that we pick up. A recent study by The New York Times revealed that just 11 percent of books published in 2018 were written by people of color and an even smaller percentage by Black authors. To fully grasp—and empathize with—the lived experiences of the Black community, our voices and stories must be amplified and celebrated not just on Black History Month, but every month.

Whether you gravitate towards thrillers (see: Zakiya Dalila Harris's The Other Black Girl), or prefer a historical fiction novel (you can't go wrong with Robert Jones, Jr.'s The Prophets), we rounded up the must-read 2021 book releases by Black authors. Go forth and support this mix of new and notable authors, ahead.

Taiwo Balogun

Taiwo Balogun is a freelance writer covering beauty, books, movies, and culture. As a writer, she is passionate about creating content to help others discover ways towards a happier lifestyle. When she’s not busy on her computer, Taiwo spends her time reading the latest book release or binge-watching a new series.