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Best Racism Books

December 2024

When the Emperor Was Divine

Julie Otsuka’s haunting novel follows a Japanese-American family uprooted from their Berkeley home during World War II. Through spare, lyrical prose, she captures the confusion and heartbreak of internment, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and loss. Otsuka’s intimate portrayal of one family’s experience sheds light on a dark chapter in American history, leaving readers to grapple with the human cost of fear and prejudice. A poignant reminder of how quickly the familiar can become foreign.

The Help

In 1960s Mississippi, three extraordinary women—Skeeter, Aibileen, and Minny—forge an unlikely bond over a clandestine project that risks their lives. Skeeter, a young white journalist, returns home from college with dreams of becoming a writer. Aibileen, a black maid, has spent her life raising white children while grieving her own loss. Minny, Aibileen’s best friend, is a sharp-tongued maid who’s never afraid to speak her mind. Together, they embark on a journey to expose the injustices faced by black maids, challenging the societal norms of their time. “The Help” is a poignant, heartwarming, and sometimes heartbreaking tale of courage, friendship, and the power of storytelling.

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

Set in the deep South during the Great Depression, “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry” by Mildred D. Taylor is a poignant tale of resilience and family. Through the eyes of young Cassie Logan, we experience the harsh realities of racism and injustice. The Logan family’s unwavering strength and unity are both heartwarming and inspiring. This book left me reflecting on the power of love and the importance of standing up for what’s right.

A Passage to India

Set against the backdrop of British-ruled India, “A Passage to India” by E.M. Forster is a brilliant exploration of cultural divides and personal connections. When an earnest schoolmistress and her inquisitive friend travel to India, they form a precarious friendship with a local doctor, leading to unforeseen consequences. Forster’s vivid descriptions transport you to the bustling streets and serene temples, making you reflect deeply on the essence of friendship and misunderstanding.

To Kill a Mockingbird

In the small town of Maycomb, Alabama, young Scout Finch navigates a world of innocence and prejudice. Her father, Atticus Finch, a principled lawyer, defends a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman, challenging the town’s deeply ingrained racism. Through Scout’s eyes, we witness the complexities of morality, justice, and human nature. Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” is a poignant exploration of empathy and the courage to stand up for what’s right.