Assata Shakur: The Autobiography

Too often, it is made to seem like the struggles of people of color happened “so long ago”. More saddening is how the struggles of Black leaders and revolutionaries are silenced or denied. This first-person detailing of the wrongs done to an innocent woman should be more widely known and discussed.

Children of Blood and Bone by @tomi_adeyemi

Children of Blood and Bone is the first of a trilogy, which takes place in a mystical version of Africa. While some places are make believe, like Orïsha, there are certainly real places mentioned like Lagos. Ancient Gods and Goddesses from the Yoruba religion play a major part of the backbone of the storyline as they guide the main character, Zélie Adebola, embarks on a destined mission to bring magic back to her people.

The Celestine Prophecy by #JamesRedfield

Focusing on the evolution of humanity, energy and relationships, the encounters train us in the insights & eventually help us reveal who we are personally, and what humans we are/can be as a species. This book ultimately (bravely) tries to explain the purpose & function of human existence — and what happened to the ancient Mayan civilization which disappeared centuries ago.

“Casual Vacancy” by J.K. Rowling

From the writer of Harry Potter, here is an adult novel complete with gossip, adultery, family issues and social commentary staged in storyline of a British political office election. Instead of a main character, there are a variety of families to keep track of. Their stories intertwine seamlessly while providing the readers a wonderful (fictional) account of daily British life in soap-opera fashion.

The Words of Martin Luther King Jr. selected by #Coretta Scott King

If you’re looking for a great book to throw in your bag (or even in your pocket) this little book of selected MLK quotes and speeches is an amazing momentary source of good vibes.

“Who Moved my Cheese?” by Spencer Johnson

This short read will change the way you move. If you’re looking for a quick, motivational read that won’t bore you to death or weigh down your bag, this is the one for you. Through a fictional tale, you learn how your action affect your outcome.

“The Power Playbook” by @LaLa

Written by Brittany Shawnté

Long before her stint on Starz’ Power, La La Anthony was a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment business. I grew up watching her co-hosting MTV’s TRL and hosting other shows, as well as starring in movies and TV shows. On the interviewing side, I loved her classy interviewing style, while still managing to keep control during shows. So, of course, when I heard she was coming out with a book detailing rules to success, I had to order it.

“Time Out” by Claudia Rowe

Written by President ELLA

This is one of the most heart-wrenching stories I’ve ever heard. Time Out details the real life story of Willard Jimerson, a man who went to jail at the age of 13 for “Lack of vision, Lack of purpose. [and] Poor self-image.” Claudia Rowe helps gather photos and details to tell Willard’s story and explain what happened the night he shot his classmate, Jamie Lynn Wilson, in the back. Combined with details of the political climate, we are able to see the societal circumstances that led Willard to the fateful night. 

The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

Written by PresidentELLA

Just in time for the Netflix series, my Kindle app granted me a free read of Margaret Atwood’s suspenseful tale. The entire time, I had no idea what was going on, but this is simply illustrative of how the main character (who doesn’t even have a real name) has no idea what is going on either. The same way she holds on and hopes for an answer, so do you. 

The Lioness of Morocco by Julia Drosten

Written by PresidentELLA

When a fair lady from London decides to ditch the corset and move to Morocco, in Northern Africa, even her husband is astounded; but he married you for your money and you don’t care what anyone thinks anyway. Oh… the loneliness of individuality.