Here’s what a few Blackasotans are reading this month:

Erica:  See No Color by Shannon Gibney

I identified quite a bit with some of Alex’s struggle to discover where she fit in. Her parents’ attempts to remain “color blind” were excruciating to read, as I’ve seen so many people wrongfully take that approach. (And I just liked that the story included a brief visit to my hometown of Detroit.)

Sherlonda: F*ck Feelings: One Shrink’s Practical Advice for Managing All Life’s Impossible Problems by Dr. Michael Bennett and Sarah Bennett

I think this is a wonderful read for those of us who struggle with ‘creating our ideal self and our ideal life’ and feel bad about it. This book tells the hard truth, using humor and some colorful language, about what we can and can’t achieve.

Stephanie: Kindred by Octavia Butler

Every Black person in this country should read this book. Although all of Octavia’s books are an experience, this one stands against the test of time in both a good way and a bad way: the writing is still beautiful and clearly brilliant, although the story reminds us that racism is still prevalent in our society. Butler manages though to capture the reader’s mind and imagination with her dynamic characters and fierce storytelling. I read it three times a year! Reading it will change your life, so pick it up as soon as you can!

C.K: Bloody Waters by Carolina Garcia-Aguilera

First of all, I love it when people of color write mystery novels. And second, I just need something funny and light right now to balance all out all of the pain and seriousness that’s going on in the world right now. And the main character is a trip!

Tell us your thoughts about what you’re reading by submitting to Blackasotan Bookshelf »