Reading is like opening doors to another world, a world filled with diverse stories and captivating characters. This selection of Afro-Latina authors will help you understand the struggles of a swimmer with idiopathic arthritis. Alternatively, you might fall in love with the strength and persistence of a young female rapper who dreams of forging her path amidst prejudice and misogyny or embracing the natural texture of your hair.
Featuring authors who explore themes of black identity, girlhood, racism, and the significance of addressing discrimination against women, these Afro-Latina authors deserve a place on your reading list, guiding you through new worlds waiting to be explored. So, embark on this literary journey and let their voices inspire and enlighten you.
1
Jasminne Mendez
Jasminne Mendez, a Dominican-American author, has garnered recognition for her versatile storytelling across children’s literature and translations. Her books, Aniana del Mar Jumps In and Josefina’s Habichuelas, delve into themes such as family traditions, coming-of-age journeys, friendships and cultural heritage.
2
Elizabeth Acevedo
Bestselling author Elizabeth Acevedo is a Dominican-American woman. Her works explore loss, the complex challenges of forgiveness, and the empowering journey of finding your voice. Clap When You Land and The Poet X are among her most famous works. Her most recent one is Family Lore.
3
Jamila Rowser
Jamila Rowser, an acclaimed Afro-Latina comic writer, editor, and publisher, has made waves with her groundbreaking work. Author of Wash Day Diaries and Ode to Keisha, her works explore themes of friendships, racism, girl power and identity.
4
Ariana Brown
Black Mexican American author Ariana Brown delves into the complexities of queer black identity within Mexican American spaces. Evocative themes like family dynamics, girlhood experiences, solitude, and healing are vividly depicted in her books Sana Sana and We Are Owed.
5
Yolanda Arroyo Pizarro
Puerto Rican author Yolanda Arroyo Pizarro has made significant contributions to the discourse on Afro-identity. Her works delve into Afro-Puerto Rican heritage, self-esteem among children and young adults, and recognition, as explored in Pelo Bueno and Las Negras.
6
Dahlma Llanos-Figueroa
Originally from Puerto Rico, Dahlma Llanos-Figueroa was raised in New York City. Renowned for her captivating narratives about enslaved women, the nineteenth century, spiritual journeys, and cultural resilience, Woman of Endurance and Daughters of the Stone stand out among her works.
7
Jaquira Díaz
Puerto Rican-born Jaquira Díaz, raised between Fajardo and Miami Beach, showcases a fearless memoir, exploring self-discovery, friendship, and resilience in Ordinary Girls (Muchachas Ordinarias). Her exceptional skill illuminates themes of personal journey, empowerment, and cultural identity, resonating deeply with readers.
8
Veronica Chambers
Panama-born Veronica Chambers frequently explores her Afro-Latina heritage in her writing, as well as pivotal moments like the historic victories for women’s suffrage and voting rights that reshaped American society, themes evident in her books Flora La Fresca and Finish the Fight.
9
Aya de León
Aya de León, known for her suspense novels, also delves into the world of music and environment. Her books Queen of Urban Prophecy and That Dangerous Energy tackle themes like women in rap, misogyny, and making the world a better place.
10
Djamila Ribeiro
As a Brazilian philosopher, writer, and activist, Djamila Ribeiro rose to international prominence with her book Pequeño Manual Antirracista. She explores themes such as racism and black identity, also evident in Cartas Para Minha Avó (Letters To My Grandmother).