Books to Celebrate Black History Month

February is Black History Month. Our understanding of Black History is conceived broadly, and we seek to celebrate a global black history – you’ll find works of Black American authors as well as those hailing from countries across the African continent and worldwide.Therefore, we compile a list of literature and artworks to honor and celebrate Black History month, and you’re invited to help us grow, maintain, and organize it!Is there a poet, author, or artist whose works you’d like added to this list? Please email us and make a suggestion to shanghai.librarian@nyu.edu.

Their eyes were watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

Main Collection: PS3515.U789 T5 2006

Physical copy available

I love myself when I am laughing … : a Zora Neale Hurston reader by Alice Walker

Main Collection: PS3515.U789 T5 2006

Physical copy available

The paintings and drawings of Clarence Major by Clarence Major

Main Collection: N6537.M337 A4 2019

Physical copy available

Reggie Burrows Hodges

Main Collection: N6537.H63 A4 2021

Physical copy available

Beloved by Toni Morrison

Ebook available

The Color Purple by Alice Walker

Main Collection: PS3573.A425 C6 1992

Physical copy available

Open City by Teju Cole

Main Collection: PR9387.9.C67 O64 2012

Physical copy and Ebook available

Azanian bridges by Nick Walker

Leisure Collection: PR9369.4.W656 A9 2016

Physical copy available

You don’t have to go to Mars for love by Yona Harvey

Ebook available

For more information and resources about the poetry, literature, and fine art books available at NYU Shanghai, click this link for the non-comprehensive list!