"Copper Sun" by Sharon M. Draper: Winner of the Coretta Scott King Award for African-American youth fiction, this novel follows the harrowing journey of Amari, a young African girl who is brutally enslaved and brought to America. In the midst of Amari’s experiences of violence and subjugation, she discovers unlikely friendships and the power within herself to fight for freedom.
"Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" by Mildred D. Taylor: This Newbery Medal winner for youth literature tells the poignant story of an African-American farming family facing racism and violence during the Depression. Nine-year-old Cassie struggles against hatred and bigotry, discovering that loyalty, family pride and hard work can overcome even the most adverse circumstances.
"After Tupac & D Foster" by Jacqueline Woodson: In this Newbery Honor recipient, the young narrator poignantly recollects the two years between rapper Tupac Shakur’s near death and eventual assassination. In this same time, she recounts her intimate friendship with a girl who moves away. The result is a tragic tale of loss and change, set against a backdrop of transformation and self-discovery.
"Toning the Sweep" by Angela Johnson: Narrated by Emily, a teenager who travels with her mother to Arizona to help her sick grandmother, this Coretta Scott King Award recipient explores womanhood at all ages, as three generations of women reunite to deal with death and change. The novel promotes family loyalty and illustrates Emily’s journey of self-discovery through the strength of the women who came before her.
"Her Stories" by Virginia Hamilton: This Coretta Scott King Award winner is a collection of stories about women from African-American folklore and history. Hamilton’s introductions to every story make them thought-provoking for readers of all ages and elevate the anthology to a historical and cultural celebration of the global heroism of women.
"The Complete Collected Poems of Maya Angelou" by Maya Angelou: This anthology of the Pulitzer Prize nominated poet spans a wide range of themes, candidly broaching the topics of sexuality, race, love, family and spirituality. From poems titled “Africa,” “Riot: 60’s,” “Little Girl Speakings,” “Shall I Rise” and “Phenomenal Woman” emerges a voice of triumph, awakening and self-fulfillment.
"The African American Guide to Personal Growth, Health, Safety, Sex and Survival: Living and Learning in the 21st Century" by Leland Johnson, Jr.: This book refers to itself as “The nation’s No. 1 self-help book for African-American teenagers and their parents.” Succinctly written chapters feature thought-provoking questions and no-nonsense advice on self-awareness, healthy behaviors, and personal responsibility. Later chapters translate these ideas into proactive steps for improving teen life, avoiding peer pressure and making tough choices.
"Born Beautiful: The African American Teenager’s Complete Beauty Guide" by Alfred Fornay: Combining science, beauty, and self-empowerment, this how-to beauty guide for young women features easy-to-understand medical explanations for skincare, fitness, and hair styling. The book gently navigates through sensible beauty and hygiene advice while consistently promoting self-love. Best of all, the example photos are of models of all shapes, colors and sizes.
"Letter to My Daughter" by Maya Angelou: The famous poet Maya Angelou employs autobiographical prose to teach life lessons in this literary and philosophical tome. Angelou tells lesson-based stories about womanhood, ranging in topics from embarrassment to aging, violence to childbirth. Throughout, the book maintains a tone of fierce triumph and determination that champions blooming womanhood.
"Stay Strong: Simple Life Lessons for Teens" by Terrie Williams: In this straight-forward, fast-paced book, Terrie Williams fights against apathy and self-centeredness among teens by offering socially just, countercultural alternatives. "Stay Strong" uses inspirational news stories and personal anecdotes to empower youth to fight for social causes, speak their minds, and give back to their communities.