The final stretch of summer is here, but the season’s literary lineup is far from cooling off. A fresh crop of books from Black authors is hitting shelves this August, spanning memoirs, novels, money guides, and speculative fiction. Whether you’re drawn to viral storytellers, seasoned novelists, or celebrated artists, this month’s releases offer something for every kind of reader.
With Black Business Month underway, personal finance expert Anthony O’Neal joins the lineup with a timely money guide. And for those who followed Reesa Teesa’s online saga, her memoir is finally arriving. Even legendary ballerina Misty Copeland is getting in on the action with a new series for younger readers. From historical fiction to romantic comedy, here are ten books by Black authors to add to your August reading list.
The Ladies Hall Historical fiction fans who admire stories centered on inspiring Black women will quickly fall for this novel from the USA Today bestselling author. Three determined women discover that their hearts, minds, friendship, and education are the tools they need to leave their mark on the world.
A Venn Diagram of One: An American Story A familiar voice in public discourse, McAllister has shared his commentary with NPR, MSNBC, and The Root. In this memoir, he examines the price of living outside America’s political and cultural silos, offering an urgent and deeply personal call to reclaim the courage to think critically and act with purpose without divisions.
Season of the Serpent Award winning author Okungbowa brings his Nameless Republic trilogy to a close with a story filled with villains, allies, and a world teetering on the edge of destruction. It’s a perfect choice for a vacation read as summer winds down.
What (TF) Do I Do Now?: Reclaiming Myself, One Piece at a Time Reesa Teesa captured the internet’s attention in February 2024 with her TikTok series in 50 parts that totaled eight hours, titled “Who TF Did I Marry?” Now she’s sharing an even more unfiltered account in her debut book, detailing how she reclaimed herself, navigated toxic relationships, and found healing through self reflection.
Firebird Waltz Misty Copeland, the iconic ballerina, launches a middle grade series aimed at readers ages 8 to 12. The first installment follows an ambitious young dancer who begins studies at the prestigious Star Fire Academy for the Performing Arts, weaving in themes of courage and identity for young readers.
Take What You Can New York Times bestselling author Coster’s novel has been called one of the most anticipated books of the summer. It introduces readers to layered women juggling platonic friendships, marriage, motherhood, and fast paced careers, with settings ranging from upscale Brooklyn brownstones to the beaches of Southern France.
Stop Living Paycheck to Paycheck: The Proven Path to Break Free from Debt, Build Real Wealth, and Live Free on Any Income Personal finance expert and HBCU professor Anthony O’Neal, a two time national bestselling author, offers a timely guide to getting finances in order. Known for his money tips on CNN and Good Morning America, O’Neal shares practical tools for breaking free from debt, building wealth, and achieving true financial freedom.
Soft Spots A recent college graduate, newly estranged from abusive parents, faces life changing decisions in this darkly funny novel about growing up. The story grapples with the real cost of estrangement and whether it’s ultimately worth it.
The Marriage Rebound This romantic comedy brings together a star WNBA player and a former exotic dancer who tie the knot and must work as teammates to make their marriage succeed. The story touches on Black love, LGBTQIA+ love, sports love, and the charm of second love romances, even when they get messy.
Root Therapy: How to Love Your Hair (And Find Yourself) Celebrity hairstylist Leatherwood, whose clients have included Ava DuVernay, Jill Scott, and Issa Rae (who wrote the book’s introduction), combines memoir and guide in this exploration of natural Black hair. The project also benefits from the insight of veteran beauty editor and ESSENCE alum Corbett.
Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, heading to the beach, or just carving out some quiet evenings at home, these new releases give you plenty of reasons to keep turning pages. So grab a title or two, support these talented Black authors, and savor the final days of the season with a great book.
