November 2023 Books by Black Authors I Can't Wait to Read

“Tomlin” is the story of Mike Tomlin, who at age 34 was hired as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Relatively unknown, Tomlin had his work cut out for him, replacing Hall of Fame coach Bill Cowher. But he rose to challenge and went on to become the youngest coach to win a Super Bowl in only his second season in charge. This is truly inspiring story. And the foreword by legendary coach Tony Dungy proves game recognizes game..

When you go to a juke joint, you’re guaranteed to have good food and a good time. Birmingham native Danni Rose is paying tribute to the culture in “Dannie’s Juke Joint Comfort Food,” a collection of some of her favorite recipes and memories. Daddy’s Fried Cheese Grits, Cajun Deviled Eggs and Ole Skool Mac ’n’ Cheese are just a few of the mouthwatering recipes inside.

If you’re looking to get your money right in the new year, “Made Whole” can give you a boost. Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche shares practical advice for saving, increasing your credit score and keeping yourself on track to reach your financial goals.

We got a taste of Snoop’s skills in the kitchen on VH1's Martha & Snoop’s Potluck Dinner Party. Now, he’s sharing some of his recipes in “Snoop Dogg Presents Goon With the Spoon,” the Doggfather’s cookbook collaboration with another rap legend, Earl “E-40" Stevens. With recipes like Flamin’ Hot Cheetos Mac ’n’ Cheese Bites and Purple Popsizzles, this book is sure to make cooking a lot more fun.

Just in time for the 40th anniversary of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize win for “The Color Purple,” “Purple Rising” pays tribute to the cultural phenomenon. With contributions from Alice Walker, Oprah Winfrey, Danny Glover, Fantasia Barrino and more, the book is a beautiful celebration of this story of family and survival.

“The Risk it Takes to Bloom” is the powerful new memoir from Black transgender activist Raquel Willis. The Georgia native writes openly about her journey from hiding her identity to becoming one of the most important and outspoken advocates for marginalized communities. The book has already received plenty of praise from her peers.

“There are too few works written by and for Black trans people, and with The Risk It Takes to Bloom Raquel Willis offers a moving and generous testimony that is as personal as it is political,” said bestselling author and activist Janet Mock.

Fans of fantasy will love getting lost in “The Princess of Thornwood Drive,” Khalia Moreau’s debut novel. The story centers around two sisters trapped on opposite sides of reality after a car accident kills their parents and leaves one sister paralyzed and nonverbal.

GRAMMY Award-winning co-founder of The Roots, Tariq Trotter (aka Black Thought), shares his unfiltered autobiography this month with the release of “The Upcycled Self.” In the book, he writes openly about his journey from childhood tragedy to his rise to becoming one of the best rappers in the game.

In 2017, a 22-year-old Lauren Simmons became the youngest full-time female trader at the New York Stock Exchange and only the second Black woman in the Exchange’s 228-year history. Now, in “Make Money Move, ” the host of the popular Money Moves podcast is sharing tips to help Black women find financial freedom.

Since losing his father and godson to suicide, actor Courtney B. Vance has been a tireless advocate for Black men’s mental health. In “The Invisible Ache,” Vance and Dr. Robin L. Smith offer Black men a guide to navigating life’s ups and downs and nurturing their mental well-being.

The legendary Ervin “Magic” Johnson said, “For Black men, there is no better voice of compassion and understanding than Courtney B. Vance to help initiate this healing journey.”

Your littlest readers can learn the story of one of the most influential women in the world with “Oprah Winfrey: A Golden Book Biography” a new picture book biography designed for readers ages 4 - 8.

Black men face unique challenges that make self-care more important than ever. But resources tailored to their needs are few and far between, which is why licensed therapist Jor-El Caraballo’s “Self-Care for Black Men” is so important. The book contains self-care strategies and activities designed to help Black men manage their mental health.

“Like Thunder” is the sequel to Nnedi Okorafor’s “Shadow Speaker.” This fast-paced sci-fi fantasy combines technology and magic in the best way.

Cam Walker’s family is preparing to open a theme park in New York City. But when unexpected glitches happen with the attractions and he starts to feel his family is being watched, Cam wonders if “Futureland” is more of a nightmare than a dream in this action-packed novel for readers ages 8 - 12.

“Fake Famous,” is Dana L. Davis’ latest YA novel for readers ages 14 and up. The story centers around a teenage girl who is forced to choose between her dream of stardom and her commitment to her family. Seventeen.com called Davis a “Black female author you should have on your bookshelf.”

“Killing the Image” is Hall of Fame Boxing Champion and Olympic gold medalist Andre Ward’s story of how he overcame the challenges of his childhood to rise to the top of his sport – and why he decided to walk away from the ring while he was at the top of his game.

Jessixa Bagley is back with “Duel,” a new graphic novel for middle grade readers. The story centers around sisters who turn their sibling rivalry into an epic fencing duel.