It is incredibly important that we discuss the works of people of color because it is imperative to our understanding of the world, culture, and human history to listen to these narratives. It is also important to recognize that people of color are also literary geniuses, although many works of people of color are not incorporated into academic settings. Here are 10 works that will be a great aid for developing a stronger understanding of the experiences of people of color and their writing.
1. Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri
This book written by a Bengali Indian author is a book that is hard to put down. It is gripping and beautifully written; with vivid poetic imagery. The stories will leave readers in tears and feelings of euphoria as well. This a book full of short stories about coming-of-age, unrequited love, the puzzles of love, family, and human associations with the environment. The books will also inform the reader about India and its culture.
2. A Fine Balance by Rohinton Misry
This one of the best books written of all time. Although the book is lengthy it is worth the read. It is one of the most finely written works ever. The story follows the lives of indiviuals of several different castes in India and their struggles in life including the sterilization movement in India in the 70s; also known as the "Emergency" which is a crucial piece of history. There are themes of gender identity, class, religion, and more.
3. The Prophet by Khalil Gibran
Khalil Gibran is a famous Lebanese writer who wrote this book which was one of the most highest selling novels of all time. The book tells the story of a Prophet who advises his people of how to live their lives; and he does this through poetry and storytelling. The poetry in the novel is stunning and extraordinary beyond measure.
4. Drown by Junot Diaz
Drown is the debut book of Dominican author Junot Diaz. The book features several short stories The American Dream, violence, family, culture, and heritage are reoccuring through the novel and Diaz' voice and characters are incredibly recognizable and memorable.
5. And The Mountains Echoed by Khaled Hosseini
This book written by Khaled Hosseini is one of his best works. He also wrote "The Kite Runner". Afghanistan and its relation to the United States and the Soviet Union is discussed in this heart wrenching novel about love and family. It follows the life of a little girl who was forced into being sold by her father after times of poverty and struggle.
6. The Round House by Louise Erdrich
This book is writtten by Native American author Louise Erdrich. This is a haunting story about the rape of a young mother in a sacred spiritual site. The story is written in the perspective of this woman's son who inestigates the case. It is a story about revenge but also a story about justice.
7. Yo! by Julia Alvarez
This coming of age book is written by an amazing Dominican writer. All of the main characters in her story are female and leave a great impact on the reader. The plot/story can at times be funny, but at other times emotional and heart wrenching. It is a story revolving around a robust and bombastic personality who captivates the hearts of many. The writing is incredibly beautiful.
8. Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
Zora Neale Hurston has the power of captivating the souls of many readers and leaving a deep and scarring impact on these readers. The ending of this story is one that leaves many readers in awe but the pages in between tell a beautiful tale of one woman's upbringing in Southern Florida during a time of great racial prejudice, racism, and renassaince. The story revolves around womanhood and female liberation and indepence. It is also a gripping love story.
9. The Panther and the Lash by Langston Hughes
This book captures the black panthers movement in the light in which the movement was meant to be captured. Elegantly written by Langston Hughes, one of the finest writers and poets of all time, this book is a must read for anyone who desires to learn about political movements that have shaped the United States.
10. The Dew Breaker by Edwidge Danticat
This book is written by Haitian author Edwidge Danticat and focuses on the lives of individuals of Haitian descent who are struggling to patch together family and love in the United States while holding onto heritage. The title comes from Macoutes, a group of volunteers killed civilians under the regime of François and Jean-Claude Duvalier in Haiti.
