Going back to school is the perfect time to refresh your reading list with books that educate, inspire, and empower. For Black college students, literature can offer a profound sense of connection, history, and encouragement. Here’s a list of 10 essential books that every Black college student should read to broaden their perspective and enhance their journey through higher education.

This classic work by W.E.B. Du Bois is a foundational text in African American literature and sociology. It explores the concept of "double consciousness" and the systemic barriers faced by Black Americans. Du Bois’ collection of essays offers an in-depth look at the challenges of post-Civil War America and remains deeply relevant to discussions about race today.

Written as a letter to his teenage son, Ta-Nehisi Coates’ "Between the World and Me" is a powerful exploration of race in America. Coates’ lyrical prose and poignant reflections on what it means to be Black in a society that often devalues Black bodies provide an important perspective for young adults navigating college life.

Zora Neale Hurston’s novel is a beautifully written story of self-discovery, love, and independence. Set in the early 20th century, it follows Janie Crawford, a Black woman in search of her own voice and identity. This book is essential for understanding the complexities of race, gender, and agency in a historical context.

James Baldwin’s "The Fire Next Time" is a searing examination of race relations in America. Comprising two essays, Baldwin’s work is both a personal reflection and a call to action, urging readers to confront the brutal realities of racism. It’s a must-read for understanding the intersections of identity, politics, and social justice.

"Americanah" is a contemporary novel that tells the story of Ifemelu, a young Nigerian woman who moves to the United States for college. Through her experiences, Adichie explores themes of immigration, race, and the Black experience in America versus Africa. It’s a thought-provoking read for any student grappling with cultural identity.

Ibram X. Kendi’s "How to Be an Antiracist" challenges readers to rethink their understanding of racism and what it means to be actively anti-racist. This book is both a memoir and a guide, offering tools for recognizing and combating racism in personal, institutional, and societal contexts. It’s an essential read for fostering a more inclusive campus environment.

This autobiography is a gripping account of Malcolm X’s life, from his troubled childhood to his rise as a powerful voice for Black empowerment. The book provides deep insights into his philosophies, the struggles of Black Americans, and the importance of self-education. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience and critical thinking.

A collection of essays and speeches by poet and activist Audre Lorde, "Sister Outsider" covers topics ranging from race and gender to sexuality and class. Lorde’s writing challenges readers to think critically about intersectionality and the ways in which different identities interact. This book is a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of identity politics.

This historical narrative by Isabel Wilkerson chronicles the Great Migration, when millions of African Americans left the South for cities in the North and West. Through the stories of three individuals, Wilkerson provides a detailed account of this monumental movement and its impact on American society. It’s a vital read for understanding the socio-economic and cultural shifts in America.

Mikki Kendall’s "Hood Feminism" critiques mainstream feminism for often overlooking the needs and voices of marginalized women, particularly women of color. Kendall argues that issues like poverty, housing, and education are fundamental feminist issues. This book is crucial for students who want to understand feminism through a more inclusive and intersectional lens.

Clay Cane's The Grift: The Downward Spiral of Black Republicans from the Party of Lincoln to the Cult of Trump, a New York Times bestseller, just dropped in paperback this week and is one of the most talked-about political books of the year. Selected as a must-read by NAACP President Derrick Johnson and praised by President Barack Obama as a "real achievement," the book traces the journey of Black Republicans from revolutionaries like Frederick Douglass to grifters like anti-civil rights Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. This essential, eye-opening read for Black college students offers insights often absent from traditional classrooms, making it a powerful addition to any back-to-school reading list. Purchase here. 

These books offer a range of perspectives that are crucial for understanding the Black experience in America and beyond. They provide a rich tapestry of voices, stories, and lessons that can help Black college students navigate their own paths with a deeper sense of history, purpose, and empowerment. Make space for these reads in your backpack or your e-reader—they’re more than just books; they’re tools for growth and understanding.