Good Black book club reads by Cincinnati Black writers.
Books by Cincinnati Black writers.
Books about Black love, Black fiction, and Black poetry.
Self-help books for African Americans.
Selections for Black book clubs.
Multiplying day by day, Cincinnati Black writers are telling their fictional love stories, life testimonies, in-the-moment poetry, and detailed research into the strenuous lives and roles in the Black community. It only makes sense to add books from these Cincinnati Black writers to your bookshelf! Readers are encouraged to confirm the information prior to purchasing.
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April’s Rain Must Fall (2022)
Robert E. Miller
A blend of distinctive poems intended to ignite the readers’ emotions toward relationships, cultural relativism, and God’s gift of love and help them recognize the majestic beauty of nature and art.
Maggieglenn’s Poetic Expressions (2021)
Margaret Gray-Davis
Featuring poems on the topic of social justice particularly including respect for the rights of minorities.
Super Bill (2021)
Super Bill is a superhero children’s book based in Cincinnati, Ohio. Defining more than one way to be a superhero, this book creates a spotlight for role models.
I am Powerful, I am Amazing, I am King (2020)
Anthony D. Brice & Kristy High
Written by two Cincinnati Black writers, I am Powerful, I am Amazing, I am a King is about a little boy who faces a world of adversity that makes him question who he is. He goes on a magical journey of self-discovery and uncovers a powerful revelation that changes his life forever.
Unprecedented Times: Strategies& Tactics Every Leader Needs to Know During a Pandemic (2020)
Tashawna Thomas Otabil and other contributing authors
Provide strategies and tactics to survive challenges related to education, finances, faith, relationships, physical and mental health.
Gems of Cincinnati’s West End: Black Children & Catholic Missionaries (2020)
LaVerne Summerlin
This project began with Summerlin’s decision to interview and/or read about 100 alumni and/or their parents who were educated in those inner-city Catholic schools between 1940 and 1970. Their personal stories are at the core of this narrative that details the Catholic church’s impact on their lives. In addition, it tells of the collaborative efforts between members of the many religious orders and lay ministers.
Black-owned retail businesses in Cincinnati
Jim Crow Sociology: The Black and Southern Roots of American Sociology (2020)
Earl Wright II, Ph.D.
This eye-opening book examines the origin, development, and significance of Black Sociology through the accomplishments of early African American sociologists at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) such as Atlanta University, Tuskegee Institute, Fisk University and Howard University.
UnRefined: Still Learning, Still Growing (2020)
Kiya Renee
In this third anthology, Kiya Renae provides her readers with an intimate look into her life, her thoughts, her experiences; the highs of highs and the lows of lows, through reflective pieces. She dares her readers to look within, remove the masks, and meet them for the first time.
I Call on You Sis: A Journal for Women and Girls Everywhere (2019)
Zvisinei Dzepasi Mamutse
I Call on You Sis is a call to help underprivileged girls in Zimbabwe better manage their lives through puberty education. In a world filled with so much loneliness, depression, suicide and jealousy, it is important to be mindful of our response when called upon. Proceeds go to the publication of a Puberty Education Handbook for Girls.
Biblical Role Models: A Guide to a Deeper Marriage (2019)
Antria Goss
This book will help you understand God’s purpose for our lives and is designed for use by couples, marriage classes, and group studies.
Cries From the Dark Side of the Moon (2019)
Lauren M. White
This emotional thriller shares real stories and experiences of black women with a poetic twist. Each story allows the opportunity for self-discovery, connection, and self-reflection.
Cross Wires (2019)
Greg Stallworth
What would you do if you receive messages about an alleged drug trafficking operation that involved your boss? This powerful mystery brings to light the dangers of being caught in a vice between loyalty to the company or reporting to the authorities.
Good books for Black Teenagers
Free (2019)
Lucille Banks
A story about a woman named Noel that has nothing to lose and will risk everything and everyone in the way of her freedom. This includes her own sanity, morals, and physical existence.
Looking Glass: A Man’s Reflections Within the Scope of Dating & Relationships (2019)
Vernon V. Jackson, Jr.
Looking Glass is for women looking to experience a rare glimpse of a man’s transparency. Furthermore, it is for men looking for better ways to relate to their feelings and articulate them in healthy ways within their relationships.
We Live for the We: The Political Power of Black Motherhood (2019)
Dani McClain
A warm, wise, and urgent guide to parenting in uncertain times, from a longtime reporter on race, reproductive health and politics.
When Love Rises (2019)
Michelle G. Stradford
In this beautiful collection of contemporary poetry and reflections, you will discover the many sides to love that exist, from the pain of heartbreak to the unrestrained joy of the first flutter of a new romance.
Woman to Woman: 10 Ways Women Sabotage Relationships (2019)
Juli Long-Brooks
CEO of iCandi Productions is among the list of Cincinnati black writers who share their own experiences with love and heartbreak. Juli shows you how you, too, can overcome the valleys and stand on top of your mountain, or even say to the mountain, “be moved!”
Cincinnati Black-Owned Restaurants
Against All Odds, Persevere! Finding Peace Through the Pain (2018)
Veronica McCall
This is a book of several short stories of real women who are sharing their testimonies of loss and grieving, domestic violence, divorce, suicide, feelings of hopelessness, being a teenage mother, a single parent and more.
Doppelganger: Part 1 (2018)
Sasha Deux Fois
Elena Kendall’s return to the Bloody Hell Convention to reprise her killer role as Terryn Myles takes an unexpected and treacherous turn.
Finding My S
parkle (2018)
Morgan Angelique Owens
A story of finding self-love… through low self-esteem, weight issues, and self-hate. Find your inner sparkle.
Forever My Brother (2018)
Isaiah Bealer
Read through the lives of four Black male youths growing up in Cincinnati who bond on the court and off the court. As the challenges and pressures that come from sports, the street and politics occur, will they be able to stay loyal to each other while pursuing their own best personal interests?
Good books for Black Children
King (2018)
Qiantria McNear
King and The Family have created a legacy in the city of Cincinnati, Ohio, but the choices they’ve made along the way have hurt the one person who’s sacrificed the most. As they all come to terms with their fate, the hard part is dealing with what they’ve caused.
Life… Before and After Cerebral Palsy (2018)
Tammy Floyd-Westmoreland
In this story, a Cincinnati black author allows us into her life to show us what it was like being a young, teen mother of a child with a disability. She talks about the trials and tribulations as well as dealing with diversity and disappointment.
The Lover’s Game (2018)
Brandon C. Brown
The Lover’s Game is an intriguing tale of love; betrayal, anger, secrets, possibility, and redemption are all pieces to the puzzle of one man’s search for love.
The Story of Marissa Ray (2018)
Chara Bee
The Story of Marissa Ray is a fictional story about lust, deceit, and betrayal. A Black woman in her mid-thirties is struggling with relationships with her family and friends.
Books About the History and Life of African Americans in Cincinnati
Wise Up Challenge: Keys to Living a Wealthy, Successful, and Fulfilling Life (2018)
Are you up for the challenge? The Wise Up Challenge was created to impact people of all ages and backgrounds and serve as a devotional that motivates and inspires God’s people.
Girl, You Are Magic (2018)
Ashley Aya Ferguson
An inspirational illustrated poem for girls. The colorful illustrations and strong poetic verses promote self-esteem and confidence in children. Also, it helps them to believe that anything is possible if they believe in their own unique abilities.
Worth the Wait (2018)
Lesley Blunt
This is a novel dealing with a young lady Layla Morris, who has trouble finding love, and when she felt she found the one, she was wrong.
Healing Beauty (2018)
Nicole Lee
As a Barber and Cosmetologist, you make one feel more balanced because you are working with their Crown (head) Chakra (energy space between body and spirit). Learn the power connection of the human touch.
As Sure As Tomorrow Comes (2017)
Danielle and Christopher Jones
Cincinnati Black writers Danielle and Christopher Jones were married for better or for worse. Unemployment. A car accident. A terrifying medical diagnosis. The death of their 10-day-old son, Junior. They never imagined they would experience all those things in their first few years of marriage!
Cincinnati Natural Hair Salons & Barber Shops
Being Bernadette: From Polite Silence to Finding the Black Girl Magic Within
Carol Tonge Mack
This book takes us on a journey from a small town in Antigua, to the streets of the South Bronx, to private college life in New England. From the opening of Carol’s memoir to the final pages, you see a life that has endured the challenges of not only being an immigrant to the shores of the U.S. but specifically as an immigrant who is also black and female. Carol’s memoir is told with love, humor, wisdom and most of all a sense of endurance – the kind of endurance endowed with the magic of being a black woman.
Christine Goes to Grandma’s (2017)
Dr. Christine Gibson
This book introduces Christine, a very inquisitive 5-year-old who is questioned for the first time on her outward appearance and must learn why she is so great.
Beautifully Graced, Broken Beginnings (2017)
Precious Carter
This is a story of life, its ups and downs and ultimately love. Love is a powerful thing, it motivates, builds up, encourages and causes triumph. May all who read be blessed and encouraged.
Embracing a New Normal (2017)
Rhonie McBerry
Take a glimpse into her struggle to forge a new path when faced with a sudden health crisis that threatens to throw her off course. Her story is one of courage and strength gained by faith in God.
Money Seeds: 30 Financial Principles (2017)
Lawrence Cain
Money management is not always the easiest. Let this book assist you with attaining clarity around their finances, and strategies to get to financial success.
The Nonfiction Outline Book: How to Write a Book Includes 50 Outlines (2017)
Frankie Johnnie
This book is perfect for nonfiction authors as it shares strategies to streamline your argument, and then outline which keeps you from repetitions or tangents which is essentially book fluff.
OTR Cincinnati and the recurring history of racial tensions and economic divide.
Unwavering Perseverance (2017)
Mary Wineberg
The story of Olympian and Cincinnati Black writer Mary Wineberg is one of extraordinary perseverance. She overcame astronomical odds and monumental challenges to grace the top step of the Olympic Podium.
Bold Love: A Letter to My Young Sisters (2016)
LPC, Terri M. Bolds MS
Bold Love speaks to young ladies and women that may not understand the pathology of their behaviors.
The Uncommon Millionaire: Financial Success Begins with Behavior (2016)
Al Riddick
Al’s common-sense approach is mixed with humor accompanied by personal stories of financial challenge and triumph. Also, his story will capture your attention and prompt you to maximize your financial potential.
Blended (2016)
Sharon M. Draper
Eleven-year-old Isabella lives in two worlds. She’s a double-backpack-carrying a child of divorce, so she lives with her mom one week, and her dad the next. In addition, she’s bi-racial. Learn how she deals with an unexpected symphony of race, terror, and finally peace.
Through Her Own Eyes: This Is Only the Beginning (2016)
Kiya Renae
Evolution, Darwinism, and Freudian theories would say that women are “emotional beings”; but why can’t women just be “expressive”? These “categories” of what is and what isn’t is part of the conflict between being accepted versus unaccepted.
Books About the History and Life of African Americans in Cincinnati
Vision. Future. Reality: How to Budget Like a Boss (2016)
Emerald Sparks
Take back control of your pocketbook and live the life you want to live.
Degree of Murder (2015)
Sasha LaShae
Vivian, a freshman who has vivid psychic visions assists a local detective in uncovering Arkhaven’s true intent.
Everyone Plays Chess (2015)
Felipe Morris
Love, lust, and happiness have nothing to do with income status and educational background. However, inside, you will find a tale of African American men and women, who through extreme circumstances, were forced to look outside of that box.
Loyal to Love (2014)
Tori D.
Oblivious to knowing what life is like transitioning from the suburbs to the ghetto, the ambitious, beautiful, young Desiree longs for the life and love she once knew.
Black Fitness Instructors
The Capacity to Succeed (2014)
Melvin J. Gravely II, Ph.D
In The Capacity to Succeed, Dr. Mel Gravely unpacks a well-researched approach for minority firms to build an ongoing capacity to succeed.
Cincinnati (2007)
Gina Ruffin Moore
Learn about Cincinnati’s African American heritage through fascinating images of African American life in the community, churches, education, politics, entrepreneurship, civil rights, community benevolence, and sports.
Frontiers of Freedom: Cincinnati’s Black Community 1802-1868
Dr. Nikki M. Taylor
This book follows the black community as it moved from alienation and vulnerability in the 1820s toward collective consciousness and, eventually, political self-respect and self-determination.
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If there are any Cincinnati Black writers we have missed, please submit the title, author, year published, a 25-word description, a jpg or png image of the cover, and a link to purchase to [email protected].
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Marissa Staples, Writer
The Voice of Black Cincinnati
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