10 Best-African American Book Clubs for Aspiring Authors

African-American literature book clubs play a vital role in promoting literature written by African American authors, fostering community, and providing platforms for aspiring writers. So, if you are you an aspiring author or writer with an ambition to grow your career? Here are notable African American literature book clubs known for supporting aspiring authors:

African-American Literature Book Clubs

1. Oprah’s Book Club

Oprah Winfrey is the wheel behind this African-American literature book club. It has a massive following and has propelled many authors, including African-American writers, to literary stardom. Oprah’s selections often include works by emerging authors.

2. Well-Read Black Girl Book Club

This is another notable African-American book club you will want to join if you are an upcoming writer. Founded by Glory Edim, Well-Read Black Girl celebrates literature written by Black women. They host in-person and virtual book club meetings, highlighting both established and emerging authors.

3. The Sankofa Book Club

The Sankofa Book Club is a unique literary community that celebrates African-American literature, culture, and history. “Sankofa” is a word from the Akan tribe of Ghana, which translates to “go back and fetch it.” It represents the idea of looking back at one’s roots to move forward with purpose. This concept underpins the mission of The Sankofa Book Club, which aims to promote understanding, empowerment, and unity among African Americans through literature.

4. Go On Girl! Book Club

With chapters across the United States, Go On Girl! Book Club has been celebrating literature written by African-American authors since 1991. They prioritize reading works by lesser-known authors and often invite them to speak at their events. If you are looking for something like “Go On Girl! Book Club,” then why not try this one out?

5. Amerie’s Book Club

Amerie’s Book Club is an online literary community founded by the singer-songwriter, author, and avid reader, Amerie. With a passion for literature and storytelling, Amerie launched her book club to share her love of reading with others and to create a platform for meaningful discussions about books.

Amerie’s Book Club typically selects a book each month for its members to read and discuss. The selections often include a diverse range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and sometimes poetry. Amerie is known for curating thought-provoking and engaging reads that encourage readers to explore new perspectives and experiences.

6. Mocha Girls Read

This national book club for Black women prioritizes diverse and inclusive reading selections. They often feature works by emerging African-American authors and provide a platform for discussion and support. We highly recommend this book club for any upcoming writer or author.

7. The African American Literature Book Club (AALBC)

AALBC is an online resource dedicated to promoting Black literature. While not a traditional book club, it serves as a valuable platform for aspiring African-American authors and writers to connect with readers and other writers.

8. Black Girls Read Book Club

“Black Girls Read Book Club” is based in Atlanta, Georgia and focuses on uplifting literature written by Black women. They offer a supportive community for both readers and writers, with a focus on amplifying diverse voices.

9. Our Shared Shelf

“Our Shared Shelf” is a global feminist book club initiated by actress and activist Emma Watson. The club was launched in January 2016 as part of Emma Watson’s work as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador. The goal of Our Shared Shelf is to provide a platform for individuals from around the world to engage in discussions about feminist literature and related social issues.

Each month, Emma Watson selects a book that focuses on themes of gender equality, women’s rights, and intersectional feminism. The selections encompass a diverse range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, essays, and poetry

10. Phillis Wheatley Book Awards

Presented by the Harlem Book Fair, the Phillis Wheatley Book Awards recognize the literary achievements of African American writers across various genres. Winning this award can provide significant exposure for aspiring authors within the African American literary community.