Best 10 YA books by black authors (African-America)

Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of young adult literature? Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a curious explorer seeking new horizons in genres, dive into our list of the top 10 ya books by black authors. Each book promises a captivating storyline that will whisk you away on an unforgettable adventure. Get ready to discover your next literature obsession and lose yourself in the pages of these interesting tales. Enjoy the ride!

1. A Hero Ain’t Nothing but a Sandwich by Alice Childress

At the top of our list is “A Hero Ain’t Nothin’ but a Sandwich,” a young adult novel published in 1973 by Alice Childress. The story revolves around 13-year-old Benjie Johnson, who, struggling with the absence of his biological father since his parents’ separation, seeks solace in drugs. Residing with his mother, grandmother, and stepfather, Benjie yields to the attraction of drugs, and ends up addicted to heroin. Through the voices of his family, teachers, peers, and even his drug dealer, the story talks about the journey of Benjie, shedding light on the damage inflicted upon both him and his caregivers.

2. Roll of Thunder, Hear my Cry by Mildred D. Taylor

Narrated through the eyes of nine-year-old Cassie Logan, “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry” by Mildred D. Taylor delves into the struggles of segregation and racism endured by the black community in Mississippi. In their segregated town, the Logans deal with discrimination and unfriendliness from white people because they own land, which is rare for black families there. The book mixes together different tales about the Logan family, showing how black and white people interact during a tough time in American history.

3. Miracle Boys by Jacqueline Woodson

Third on our list is Jacqueline Woodson’s award-winning novel, “Miracle Boys,” published by Penguin Books on April 23rd, 2000. The story revolves around three young brothers of African-American and Puerto Rican heritage—Lafayette, Ty’Ree, and Charlie—as they navigate life in Harlem following the death of their mother.

With their eldest brother striving to provide for them, the siblings struggle with the challenges of growing up without parental guidance. Charles, who was in a juvenile home when their mother passed, harbors resentment and anger upon his return, prompting Lafayette, the story’s narrator, to nickname him “Newcharlie.” As they confront their past, the brothers must reconcile their emotions to embrace the present.

4. Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

Brown Girl Dreaming,” another book by Jacqueline Woodson, talks about the life of a young black girl named Jacqueline growing up in the 1960s. Residing in Ohio with her mother, father, brother, and sister, Jacqueline reflects on her childhood experiences, personal growth, and journey into becoming a writer. Against the background of racism and segregation, Jacqueline perfectly captures the challenges of being a black girl in a predominantly white community, offering deep insights into the era’s social dynamics and her own changing identity.

5. Copper Sun by Sharon M. Draper

Released on September 20th, 2000, “Copper Sun” is a young adult novel written by the Coretta Scott King Award-winning author Sharon Draper. The narrative centers around Amari, a 15-year-old girl. Thrown into the horrors of slavery, Amari endures the loss of her identity and possessions, clinging only to the glimmer of hope for freedom. Amari’s plight unfolds after her village welcomes some white men whose sole purpose was to capture the strongest members of the tribe for sale into slavery. Among those captured, Amari finds herself torn from her family, with her brother and mother killed in the raid. Through Amari’s journey, the author tells the painful struggles of slavery and the enduring persistence and hope for liberation.

6. The Hate You Give by Angi Thomas

This book made its mark by debuting at number one on The New York Times young adult best-seller list. Narrated by Starr Carter, a 16-year-old African-American girl. The story unfolds as she becomes entangled in a national news story after witnessing a police officer fatally shoot her childhood friend, Khalil. Khalil’s death quickly becomes a national headline, sparking heated debates and protests. The pressing question on everyone’s mind is: what truly transpired that fateful night? With Starr as the only witness, the decision of what to disclose—or withhold—could have far-reaching consequences for her community and even endanger her own life.

7. Tyrell by Coe Booth

Coe Booth’s debut novel, “Tyrell,” is a compelling young adult read that delves into the life of a young African American teenager residing in a homeless shelter alongside his mother and younger brother. Tyrell’s struggle to maintain his family unit and meet their basic needs exposes him to the challenges of adolescence. Some including peer pressure and the temptation of quick money.

8. Monster by Walter Dean Myers

In the novel “Monster,” we follow the experiences of Steve Harmon, a black teenager accused of robbery and murder. Author Myers presents Steve’s perspective using his journal entries and a screenplay format. Myers skillfully allows readers to question Steve’s reliability as a narrator. Through its exciting and intense storytelling, “Monster” addresses important real-life issues directly.

9. Dear Martin by Nic Stone

Dear Martin, published in 2017 by Crown Publishing Group, marks Stone’s first novel, crafted in response to the murder of Jordan Davis. The narrative tracks a young high school student, Justyce, residing in Atlanta and enrolled in a white preparatory school through a scholarship. Justyce starts writing letters to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to deal with the racism and injustices he faces after a police officer handcuffs him because of his skin color.

As Justyce struggles with his own experiences and relationships, he seeks guidance from Dr. King’s teachings on non-violence and social justice.

10. On The Come Up by Angie Thomas

On The Come Up by Angie Thomas is last on our list of ya books by black authors. This story follows a young teenage girl Bri. Bri is a talented young rapper striving to make it in the music industry amidst the challenges of poverty, racism, and family struggles.

As Bri navigates her way through high school, she faces various challenges, including racism, stereotypes, and financial struggles. Despite her great talent, Bri finds herself entangled in controversy after releasing a song that is misinterpreted as promoting violence.

This incident consequently leads to her being unfairly targeted by authorities and facing expulsion from school. Throughout the novel, Bri struggles with her identity as she endeavors to stay true to herself while also meeting the expectations of others. She confronts issues of race, class, and privilege, both within her community and in the predominantly white spaces of the music industry.

Amidst all these, Bri finds comfort in her passion for music and the support of her family and friends, including her mother Jay and her best friend Malik. Through Bri’s journey, Angie Thomas shines a light on the importance of self-expression, resilience, and solidarity in the face of adversity.

As we conclude our list of the top 10 ya books by black authors, keep in mind that each of these titles is compelling and entertaining, and there are numerous others by various authors waiting to be explored.