From personal development to financial freedom, Black women authors are penning great literature, sharing their experiences, expertise, and cultures with the world. This Women’s History Month, BYP rounded up some of the most powerful books written by Black women for Black women full of insight, encouragement, and inspiration. If you’re on a path to improving your life, consider adding these bodies of work to your bookshelves.
Black And Great: The Essential Workplace Toolkit
For younger Black professionals beginning their careers, the workforce can be intimidating. Navigating new work cultures with little to no support overwhelms many, which is why we love Rene Germain’s “Black and Great” book. It delivers an enlivening look into the workforce from a Black experience while inserting helpful strategies to help Black professionals excel. Her book offers sound advice for career longevity, from salary negotiation hacks to moving past imposter syndrome and more.
The Black Girl’s Guide to Financial Freedom: Build Wealth, Retire Early, and Live the Life of Your Dreams
Financial uncertainty urges intentional spending habits, as securing the bag requires effort, not wishful thinking. And as much as we hope money could fall from the skies and land in our bank accounts, the truth is, securing the bag requires intentional effort. This is where author Paris Woods’ book, “The Black Girls Guide to Financial Freedom,” comes in. The Harvard graduate delivers beginner-friendly money advice to help Black women build wealth and achieve their financial goals well into retirement.
Don’t Touch My Hair by Emma Dabiri
BlackHair is beautiful, unique, and versatile. From curly coils to twist-outs and more, textured strands allow Black people to reconnect with their heritage and culture. Natural hair movement reveals prejudice against Black women’s textured hair in the workplace. In her book, “Don’t Touch My Hair,” the author, TV host, and academic Emma Dabiri gives a voice to the often muted phenomenon that so many Black women face through humour, honesty, and analysis. Her candid examination celebrates the cultural reference of Black coils while keeping readers thoroughly entertained.
Self-Care for Black Women: 150 Ways to Radically Accept & Prioritize Your Mind, Body, & Soul
Former journalist and now mental health therapist Oludara Adeeyo knows about working in high-paced, stressful environments. Over the course of her early career, she was an associate editor at Cosmopolitan, managing editor at XXL, and more. But, if her career journey taught her anything, it revealed the impact of hostile work environments on Black women’s mental and psychological health. “Self-Care for Black Women” book provides practical strategies to prioritize well-being while pursuing professional goals. This book is great for students and senior leaders, providing easy exercises and tips.
Other avenues for insight
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