Books matching: activism and identity
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A beautifully written, thought-provoking collection that’s both a meditation on writing and life. Essential reading if you love personal essays, literary craft, or the power of storytelling.
In Alexander Chee's 'How to Write an Autobiographical Novel', he delves deep into his past, exploring his boyhood, life as a student, and the years leading up to becoming a writer. The book is a collection of essays that weave through his life experiences, from the early years of AIDS in San Francisco to the aftermath of a traumatic event that shaped him. Chee's writing style gently reveals his personal journey, touching on themes of identity, writing, and overcoming childhood traumas.
I WAS ONE OF twelve students in Chiapas from my high school that summer, on what now seems like an odd program: we lived there with the Mexican students who lived with us during the year, but unlike t...April 2018•287 pagesFour Hundred Souls is a patchwork masterpiece - powerful, moving, and essential for anyone who wants to truly understand the depth and breadth of African American history. Prepare to be challenged, inspired, and better informed.
'Four Hundred Souls: A Community History of African America, 1619-2019' by Ibram X. Kendi is a transformative and essential book that takes readers on a historical journey spanning four centuries of African American history. Through a collection of voices and stories, the book sheds light on the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of African Americans in America. The writing style captivates readers, immersing them in the epic narrative of the African American experience, from the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in 1619 to the challenges faced in the modern era.
The book presents a comprehensive look at the collective history of African Americans, delving into themes of racism, social justice, activism, and the complexities of identity. It weaves together personal narratives, historical facts, and cultural insights to provide a nuanced understanding of the African American community's rich and diverse history. Readers are invited to reflect, empathize, and engage with the past to create a more informed and inclusive future.
Four hundred years ago, in 1620, a cargo ship lowered its anchor on the eastern shore of North America. It had spent sixty-six grueling days on the perilous Atlantic Ocean, and its 102 passengers fell...February 2021•517 pages- #3
Save:A creepy, fast-paced treat with a lovable main character - great for YA fans who want spooky vibes without the gore. Not a literary masterpiece, but definitely a fun, addictive read.
'The Haunting of Sunshine Girl' follows the story of Sunshine Griffith, a teenage girl who moves to a new home in Washington State with her mother. As they settle in, Sunshine begins to experience paranormal activity and realizes that the house is haunted by a girl who was brutally murdered and a demon. With the help of her friend Nolan, Sunshine delves into the mysteries of the house and her own supernatural abilities, leading to a thrilling tale of ghosts, demons, and the fight against evil. The book blends elements of horror, suspense, and the supernatural to create a gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
The writing style of 'The Haunting of Sunshine Girl' is described as a mix of creepy, suspenseful moments and relatable emotions. The book introduces readers to well-developed characters like Sunshine and Nolan, whose interactions drive the plot forward. The story balances the eerie paranormal elements with a touch of lightness, making it an engaging read that appeals to both young adult and adult audiences. Overall, the book offers a blend of mystery, ghostly encounters, and self-discovery that keeps readers hooked until the very end.
“Mom, the house is creepy.” We’re only halfway up the gravel driveway to our new home, and I can already tell. Even the driveway is creepy: long and narrow, with tall bushes on either side so I can’t...March 2015•308 pages - #4
Save:A gritty, bold MC romance with unforgettable leads - perfect if you like your love stories raw, suspenseful, and action-packed. Just be ready for graphic content and emotional intensity!
"Move the Sun" by Susan Fanetti is a gritty and intense story set in the world of a Motorcycle Club in Signal Bend. The plot revolves around Lilli, a strong and mysterious woman with a hidden agenda, who moves to Signal Bend. She catches the attention of Isaac, the President of the Night Horde MC, and their relationship unfolds with passion, secrets, and danger. The story is filled with rough edges, drama, action, and a touch of mystery as Isaac and Lilli navigate their complicated relationship while dealing with external threats to the MC and the town. The writing style is described as real and raw, with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps readers engaged and invested in the unfolding events.
2014•250 pages - #5
Save:An unflinching, timely, and emotional YA about resistance and identity - it's tough but essential reading, especially for those who want fiction with real-world relevance and substance.
Anger Is a Gift by Mark Oshiro follows Moss, a black, gay teen living in Oakland, California, who is dealing with intense anxiety attacks stemming from his father's murder by the police. The story unfolds at West Oakland High, where Moss and his friends face escalating police presence, random locker searches, and metal detectors, leading to a tragic event during a peaceful protest. The book delves into themes of police violence, activism, social injustice, and the struggles of teens of color, portraying a realistic and unflinching account of the devastating situation in Oakland. Oshiro's writing style is described as honest, open, and brutal, with fully fleshed out characters and diverse representation that provides models for organizing and activism.
Moss had boarded the train in San Francisco that afternoon expecting nothing out of the ordinary, just a normal ride home with his best friend, Esperanza. The train was crowded, plenty of people eager...May 2018•431 pages - #6
Save:A beautifully written, emotional, and important YA novel - perfect for those seeking a moving coming-of-age story with rich LGBTQ+ and historical themes. It will break your heart and restore your hope, maybe even in the same chapter.
'Like a Love Story' by Abdi Nazemian is a poignant coming-of-age novel set in New York City in 1989, during the height of the AIDS crisis. The story follows Reza, an Iranian immigrant struggling with his sexuality, as he navigates high school life and forms relationships with Judy, an aspiring fashion designer, and Art, a rebellious photographer documenting the AIDS epidemic. Through their intertwined journeys, the book explores themes of self-acceptance, love, activism, and the impact of the AIDS crisis on the LGBTQ+ community. The writing style is described as raw, honest, and emotionally impactful, capturing the complexities of the characters' experiences and the historical backdrop of the era.
There should be a limit on how long any human being has to wear braces. Also, there should be another name for braces. Mouth invaders, maybe, or teeth terrorists. Although I suppose an Iranian boy the...June 2019•418 pages Original, hilarious, and deeply moving - Bob the Drag Queen’s debut is a vibrant celebration of history, queerness, and liberation, perfect for anyone ready to see Harriet Tubman like never before.
Harriet Tubman: Live in Concert by Bob the Drag Queen is an imaginative and entertaining novel that blends history with contemporary culture. The story follows Harriet Tubman, brought back to life, as she teams up with Darnell, a queer Black music producer. Together, they create a rap concept album about her life, making the narrative vibrant and engaging.
The writing style is sharp and witty, reflecting Bob's unique voice. Readers appreciate the blend of historical facts with a compelling narrative that makes it feel immersive rather than textbook-like. The humor and authenticity of the dialogue keep readers engaged, while the themes of liberation and identity resonate deeply. Overall, it's both educational and inspiring, capturing the essence of Tubman's legacy in a modern context.
March 2025•240 pages- #8
Save:The Silence that Binds Us by Joanna Ho is a compelling novel that tells the story of May, a young girl navigating the aftermath of her brother's suicide. The book explores heavy themes such as loss, grief, and racism while highlighting the complexities of relationships within the AAPI community and beyond. As May grapples with the pressures from her family and society, she also learns to use her voice to speak out against the injustices faced by her community. Through her journey, readers witness the impact of mental health struggles and the importance of solidarity among different racial groups.
Ho's writing style is both beautiful and thought-provoking. She creates multidimensional characters, allowing them to break free from stereotypes and express their unique stories. The narrative is immersive, making readers feel intensely connected to the characters. The blend of heavy-hitting issues with moments of hope and empowerment creates an engaging reading experience. This novel not only captivates but also encourages readers to reflect on their own understanding of race, grief, and the importance of listening to one another.
June 2022•445 pages - #9
Save:A uniquely intricate and challenging read - more a literary puzzle than a traditional sci-fi novel. Highly rewarding for those willing to dive deep, but not an easy or breezy experience.
The Fifth Head of Cerberus by Gene Wolfe is a multi-layered work that delves into matters of identity, freedom, and colonization across three interconnected novellas set on twin colony worlds. The book explores themes of uncertainty, ambiguity, and the nature of reality through the lens of unreliable narrators and intricate storytelling techniques. Wolfe's prose is described as beautiful, deep, and technically perfect, creating a complex yet rewarding reading experience.
When I was a boy my brother David and I had to go to bed early whether we were sleepy or not. In summer particularly, bedtime often came before sunset; and because our dormitory was in the east wing o...1972•261 pages - #10
Save:A bold, genre-defying exploration of politics, community, and identity - dense but ultimately rewarding, especially for readers up for a challenge.
'I Hotel' by Karen Tei Yamashita is a groundbreaking novel that delves into the complexities of Asian American culture, politics, and history. The book intricately weaves together themes of Black Asian alliance, class struggle, belonging, manong, communism, food, film, dance, jazz, gender, and romance, while exploring the question of identity and belonging in a multicultural society. Yamashita's writing style is described as innovative, disruptive, and cinematic, pushing aesthetic boundaries and delivering a unique reading experience that captivates readers.
June 2010•622 pages
