Black History Month Books & Films
This Black History Month, our staff shared personal stories and the books and films that have shaped their understanding of Black history and culture. From historical deep dives to powerful memoirs and films that highlight Black excellence, these recommendations offer a meaningful place to start—or continue—your learning.
Books:
- The Warmth of Other Suns – Isabel Wilkerson
- How the Word Was Passed – Clint Smith
- The Autobiography of Malcolm X – Malcolm X & Alex Haley
- Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America – Ibram X. Kendi
- The Souls of Black Folk – W.E.B. Du Bois
- The Destruction of Black Civilization – Chancellor Williams
- Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass – Frederick Douglass
- The Black Book – Toni Morrison (Editor)
- The Underground Railroad – Colson Whitehead
- Counting Descent – Clint Smith
- The Invisibles: The Untold Story of African American Slaves in the White House – Jesse J. Holland
- White Rage – Carol Anderson
- White Too Long: The Legacy of White Supremacy in American Christianity – Robert P. Jones
- Emergent Strategy – Adrienne Maree Brown
- Vegetable Kingdom – Bryant Terry
Films & Documentaries:
- 13th – Directed by Ava DuVernay
- Selma – Directed by Ava DuVernay
- Hidden Figures – Directed by Theodore Melfi
- Lean on Me – Directed by John G. Avildsen
- Eyes on the Prize – PBS Documentary Series
- The African Americans – PBS Documentary Series
- The Sixth Triple Eight – Directed by Tyler Perry
- Harriet – Directed by Kasi Lemmons
- High on the Hog – Netflix Documentary Series
These powerful stories and historical accounts remind us that Black history is American history—and learning should never stop. Check out these recommendations and keep the conversation going!