Fall is the perfect reading season. This is of course not a personal opinion, it’s based on fact. Just imagine, your favorite blanket, a hot drink and good book to read? What could possibly bring more comfort and joy? Well, okay basking under a warm sun while listening to waves crash on the shoreline could be just as as enjoyable. Unfortunately, I didn’t get that experience this year so, maybe I’m bias but, fall is the winner.
Reading has not come as easy this year as it has in the past. Normally, I grab a bag full of books at my beloved local library. This year, it’s hasn’t been open since March. I still have four books checked out but, they aren’t accepting returns year either. They are however doing digital checkouts but, every book I want to read is on super hold. I’m like 100th or more in line. The other interference is my sweet baby who absolutely demands my attention 24/7. Couple these things up with everything else I have going on and I almost didn’t set out to reach a reading goal. Almost.
If you’ve been around my blog, you know I believe in self-care and doing things you love. Reading is something I love, so I couldn’t let myself make excuses due to a little inconvenience. I also couldn’t let myself not have a goal to reach. So, I went on ahead and decided that reaching my goals would just look a little different this year.
The Trouble With Buying Books
I have always had a deep love for the library. Everywhere I’ve ever lived I’ve made sure to get myself a library card. When I started having kids, I made sure we participated in library events. There is something about a library that brings me joy. Especially the well kept ones.
So, it may come as no surprise that I prefer to rent out the books I read rather than buy them. The main reason (especially while I was growing up) is that it’s budget friendly. Another reason being that I love books that are already broken into it. Plus, it’s kinder to the trees. But, most importantly, I rent my books so my husband doesn’t complain about the clutter. This year, I know why it might not be the best idea to rent and since the waitlist for e-books is so long my only option is to purchase.
So, instead of my usual haul of 30+ books (children’s books included), I’ve had to narrow it down to just a few books that I absolutely want to get my eyes on. I also want to share this list with you so maybe we can chat about it later like good friends do.
Now, you’re probably wondering what the trouble with buying books is, right? Well, there isn’t one when you have a huge book budget. Go buy those books girl!
The following list is compiled of black authors and a mix of genres. I read everything from YA, to science-fiction, to self-help and more. So, this list reflects a few different genres. I hope you consider checking some of these titles out for yourself. All of them are linked to purchase. If you do, leave me a comment!
Happy Reading!
My Fall Reading List 2020
The Goddess Twins by Yodassa Williams
In her debut novel Yodassa Williams introduces us to twins Arden and Aurora and literal BLACK GIRL MAGIC. Just before their 18th birthday they discover they have magical powers. They also discover their mother has gone missing. Now they must figure out how to save their mother and themselves before the clock runs out.
(Black girl magic was all I needed to hear.)
Luster by Raven Leilani.
Raven Leilani’s debut novel, Luster, tells the story of a young black woman trying to make sense of her life when she meets a man in an open marriage. Soon enough, she finds herself living in his home (invited by his wife) and playing role model to his young adopted daughter.
(What could possibly go wrong there?)
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett:
Identical twin sisters living very different lives. One clinging to her roots in a small southern town. The other in California passing as white unbeknownst to her husband.
(Interesting.)
You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson
After her financial aid to a prestigious college falls through, high school senior and aspiring doctor Liz decides to run for prom queen to secure a scholarship. But, things suddenly aren’t so cut and dry when she finds herself falling for newcomer and prom queen competitor Mack.
(LGBTQ+ read I added for my daughter)
Memorial Drive by Natasha Tretheway
Memorial Drive is a heartrending reflection on the inconceivable trauma of her mothers murder and how it shaped her into the Pulitzer Prize winning poet she is today. This memoir is about overcoming tragedy, domestic violence and loss.
(I was especially interested in this one because my mother was also murdered when I was very young.I am looking forward to this read)
Be sure to check out: My Best Tips for A Restful Night’s Sleep