• Home »
  • Lists »
  • Excellence in Black Fiction

List

Excellence in Black Fiction

By Skokie Staff Advisory Services

Here is some of the best fiction by Black authors published in 2023 and 2024.

  • James

    2024 by Everett, Percival

    One of 2024’s most popular works of historical fiction, James offers an ingenious counterpoint to The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and tells the story from the point of view of the enslaved character Jim. Percival Everett's retelling is moving, funny, profound, and a classic in its own right. Suggested by Chris.

    Get this item

  • Symphony of Secrets

    2023 by Slocumb, Brendan

    This atmospheric and page-turning thriller is thick with suspense while exploring race, greed, and classical music. Even if you are not a fan of classical music, Brendan’s Slocumb’s sophomore effort is a ride that you won’t want to miss. Suggested by Paul.

    Get this item

  • Let Us Descend

    2023 by Ward, Jesmyn

    Ward's latest novel is a deeply moving work of historical fiction with fantasy elements. The writing style is gorgeous and haunting, with an unforgettable main character. Suggested by Brenna.

    Get this item

  • The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store

    2023 by McBride, James

    This is a book that will challenge your way of thinking and move you (honestly, you'll never expect to have your heart broken by a character named "Monkey Pants"). James McBride moves seamlessly between every register from suspense to laugh-out-loud comedy as he tells a beautiful story of flawed people finding their best selves. Suggested by Andrew.

    Get this item

  • Come and Get It

    2024 by Reid, Kiley

    Keen observations and social commentary drive this slow-burning and character-driven novel set in 2017, on the campus of the University of Arkansas. Kiley Reid brilliantly provides both heart wrenching and laugh-out-loud moments. Suggested by Paul.

    Get this item

  • One of Us Knows

    2024 by Cole, Alyssa

    A riveting thriller about the new caretaker of a historic estate who finds herself trapped on an island with a murderer—and the ghosts of her past. Suggestded by Rummanah.

    Get this item

  • Family Meal

    2023 by Washington, Bryan

    Bryan Washington follows up his hugely popular book, Memorial, with this deeply moving story about love, grief, acceptance, and yes–food. Suggested by Paul.

    Get this item

  • All the Sinners Bleed

    2023 by Cosby, S. A.

    This is a gritty tale about horrific crimes that have occurred in a small Southern town that shock the citizens and cause racial turmoil. The race to find the killer haunts the first Black sheriff, Titus, as he deals with demons of his own. Suggested by Skokie staff.

    Get this item

  • Crook Manifesto

    2023 by Whitehead, Colson

    In part two of the Harlem Trilogy, Colson Whitehead transports readers back to Harlem, but this time in the 1970s. Witty and beautifully written, this book is a must read even if you haven’t read Harlem Shuffle (which you should). Suggested by Paul.

    Get this item

  • A Love Song for Ricki Wilde

    2024 by Williams, Tia

    Tia Williams delivers an unforgettable read in this genre-bending story that blends past and present-day Harlem. Ricki Wilde leaves her family for New York City and soon finds out that there’s more waiting for her than just her dream of opening up a flower shop. Suggested by Paul.

    Get this item

  • Chain-Gang All-Stars

    2023 by Adjei-Brenyah, Nana Kwame

    Nana Kwama Adjei-Brenyah holds nothing back in this dark, violent, and thought-provoking story set in a not-too-distant yet dystopian America. Amid the in-your-face action is insightful commentary on the prison system, freedom, and capitalism. Suggested by Paul.

    Get this item