African-American Literature that has Shaped Black Culture

As we continue to celebrate Black History Month I wanted to share some insight into the types of literature that have helped shape the way that I view race, class, and culture. I have listed my very own personal top ten most influential authors along with the specific work that has impacted me the most. It is no secret that the power and forces of bigotry in American society has inflicted many scars on black culture. These authors however, have been able to use their creativity to bring to the surface issues that we as a society both black and white have often times chosen not to confront and frequently have turned our heads the other way in. Their creative genius and literary talents have helped us define and discuss a wide range of issues that many people struggle with such as inferiority complexes, racial uplift, invisibility, rejection, religion, repression, sexism, educational disparities, and trauma. I invite you to take some time to learn more about these authors and their impressive contributions to literature and Black Culture.

·        Richard Wright - Native Son and Black Boy

·        Toni Morrison - The Bluest Eye

·        Ralph Ellison – Invisible Man

·        James Baldwin – Go Tell It on the Mountain

·        Paul Laurence Dunbar – We Wear the Mask

·        Maya Angelou - I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

·        Claude McKay – Home to Harlem

·        W.E.B. DuBois - The Souls of Black Folks

·        Zora Neal Hurston - Their Eyes Were Watching God

·        Michael Eric Dyson - Debating Race with Michael Eric Dyson