Fantasy books often have the power to transport us to a world of magic and wonder. But this experience can be even more exhilarating if we know that the author has experienced similar injustices and triumphs as we do. For those looking for fantasy books by Black authors, we’ve compiled a list of 10 must-read titles. From family sagas to epic battles, these stories will take you on a journey into realms both familiar and unknown. Get ready to experience some of the most captivating writing from Black authors in the fantasy genre!
The Sorcerer of the Wildeeps by Kai Ashante Wilson
There are a lot of great fantasy novels out there by black fantasy authors, but if we had to pick just one, it would be The Sorcerer of the Wildeeps by Kai Ashante Wilson. This novel is absolutely incredible, and Wilson is a master storyteller.
The Sorcerer of the Wildeeps follows Demane, a young man with magical abilities who has been taken in by a group of mercenaries known as the Wildeeps. As they travel through the wilderness, they are constantly beset by dangerous creatures, and Demane’s magic is their only hope of survival.
But as Demane grows more powerful, he begins to realize that there is more to the world than he ever knew. And when he discovers the true nature of his own magic, he must make a choice: use his power to save his friends, or follow his own path and risk everything.
The Sorcerer of the Wildeeps is an epic tale of adventure and self-discovery that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page. If you’re looking for a fantasy novel that breaks new ground and features a complex and compelling protagonist, this is the book for you.
Binti by Nnedi Okorafor
Binti by Nnedi Okorafor is one of the best fantasy books by black authors you need to read. It tells the story of a young girl who is chosen to be the first of her people to leave their home world and attend an intergalactic university. The book explores themes of identity, culture, and belonging.
Binti is a unique and compelling protagonist, and the book’s Afrofuturist setting is rich and fascinating. The story is fast-paced and well-written, with plenty of action and suspense. It’s also surprisingly thought-provoking, raising important questions about race, religion, and society.
If you’re looking for a great fantasy book that features a strong black female protagonist, Binti is definitely worth checking out.
Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James
Black Leopard and Red Wolf is the first book in Marlon James’ Dark Star Trilogy. The novel follows the story of Tracker, a professional bounty hunter, who is hired to find a missing boy. However, as Tracker begins his search, he realizes that there is more to this case than meets the eye. Black Leopard, Red Wolf is a dark and gritty fantasy novel that features complex characters and a richly-imagined world.
Brown Girl in the Ring by Nalo Hopkinson
Brown Girl in the Ring by Nalo Hopkinson is a darkly magical, Afro-Caribbean-inspired fantasy that follows Ti-Jeanne, a young woman who must save her community from a vengeful spirit.
Ti-Jeanne lives in the inner city of Toronto and is struggling to care for her young son, Jeremiah, and keep up with her studies. When her grandmother dies, Ti-Jeanne is left to deal with her grief as well as the pressures of everyday life. She turns to Obeah, an Afro-Caribbean form of magic, for help.
With the help of her friend Tony and the spirit of her grandmother, Ti-Jeanne must face down the evil spirits that are targeting her community. Brown Girl in the Ring is a fast-paced, thrilling read that will leave you wanting more.
The Gilda Stories by Jewelle Gomez
Jewelle Gomez’s The Gilda Stories is a must-read for any fan of fantasy literature. This collection of short stories follows the life of Gilda, a young black woman who is born into a world of magic and mystery.
Gilda’s story begins in the early 1800s, when she is born into slavery. She is quickly whisked away to a life of luxury and privilege as the personal servant of a wealthy white family. But even as she enjoys her new life, Gilda cannot forget the horrors of her past.
As she grows older, Gilda discovers that she has magical powers. She uses her powers to help other slaves escape their bondage and to fight against the injustice of the world around her.
The Gilda Stories is an inspiring and empowering work of fantasy fiction. It is sure to delight readers of all ages.
Kindred by Octavia E. Butler
“Kindred は Octavia E. Butler tells the story of a black woman who is transported back in time to the antebellum South. The story explores themes of slavery, race, and family.
The protagonist, Dana, is a 26-year-old black woman living in Los Angeles in 1976. She is married to a white man, Kevin, and they have a young daughter. One day, while she is at home with her family, she suddenly finds herself transported back in time to 1815 Maryland. She soon realizes that she has been sent back in time in order to save the life of her ancestor, Rufus Weylin.
Dana is initially reluctant to help Rufus, as he is a slave owner. However, she soon realizes that if she does not save his life, her own existence will be erased. Dana thus embarks on a journey to save Rufus from danger and ultimately comes to terms with her own identity as a black woman.
Kindred is widely regarded as one of Butler’s best works. It has won numerous awards and has been praised for its delicate exploration of race and identity.
My Soul to Keep by Tananarive Due
Tananarive Due’s My Soul to Keep is one of the best fantasy books by a black author that you need to read. The story follows Jessica, a young black woman who dies and is reincarnated as a vampire. She must come to terms with her new identity and learn to control her hunger for blood while navigating the dangerous world of the undead.
Due’s novel is rich with detail and offers an intriguing take on the vampire mythos. It is a fast-paced and engaging read that will leave you eager to see what happens next. If you are looking for a new and exciting fantasy series to get into, then look no further than My Soul to Keep.
The Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler
In Octavia E. Butler’s Parable of the Sower, a young girl named Lauren Olamina lives in a future America that has been ravaged by climate change, violence, and poverty. Despite the harsh conditions of her life, Lauren has a hopeful vision for the future. She believes that if people can learn to love and care for one another, they can create a utopia.
Lauren’s views are put to the test when her community is attacked by a group of marauders. She is forced to flee her home with only a handful of supplies. As she travels across the country, she meets other survivors who have formed their own communities. Some are kind and helpful, while others are ruthless and violent.
Throughout her journey, Lauren must decide whether to follow her utopian dreams or succumb to the reality of the post-apocalyptic world. Parable of the Sower is a thought-provoking novel that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
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Conclusion
We hope this list of the ten best fantasy books by Black authors has inspired you to pick up a new book and explore some amazing stories. With so many great options, no matter what type of fantasy you’re into, there’s something here for everyone. From epic battles between gods and monsters to magical coming-of-age tales, the world of fantasy is full of exciting possibilities just waiting to be explored. So, what are you waiting for? Get these great books now!
