Having just re-watched Carleen Brice’s brilliant video, “National Buy a Book by a Black Author and Give it to Somebody Not Black Month,” I figure it’s time I add to the effort to get rid of the African American Authors separate and in no ways equal sections in some bookstores. (Haven’t seen it in any Indie in Boston–anyone else?) According to those who know, sales are less for non-white authors, promotion is less, and crossing the reading divide from White to Black (as opposed to vice-versa) is less. So, let’s promote, folks.

First, I recommend CHILDREN OF THE WATERS by Carleen Brice. A drama about sisters (you all know I love sister-stories, right?) finding each other, but not easily, across the racial divides. Not giving away any more, but there is love, family tragedy, secrets, mothers hiding truth, dog-lovers, and more. A page-turner, this book is warm, and wonderful.

Second, CAUCASIA by Danzy Senna. Again sisters, this is the story of biracial sisters from a troubled marriage. Eventually, the sisters separate—one to each parent. This is a book that won’t let go. I’ve read it twice, and I bet I’ll probably read it again.

Third, hard for me to pick, I’ve loved every one of her books, JUMP AT THE SUN by Kim McLarin. McLarin takes on the ambivalence of motherhood and what hides behind what might look like the best marriage.

Fourth, CHILDREN OF ATLANTA by Tayari Jones. Jones explores the horror of a spate of kidnapping and murder through the eyes of the children in the community. How she switches from voice to voice is a wonder.

Fifth, and last for today, THE SECRET LIVES OF BABA SEGI’S WIVES by Lola Shoneyin. This novel delves into a different kind of sisterhood as it explores polygamy in modern Nigeria. No Big Love, this books looks closely at what the practice means to each wife. Another wonderful read.

Okay, add yours please. This post was written fast and furious: more next month as we work to get rid of any damn ghettos, oops, I mean sections in the bookstore.