Famous African American Literature

In the month of February, Americans place a special emphasis on the achievements and history of black Americans, or Americans of African descent. Each year, a theme promotes one facet of black heritage. This year, 2016, the theme is “Hallowed Grounds: Sites of African American Memories.” The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) website explains, “From port cities where Africans disembarked from slave ships to the battlefields where their descendants fought for freedom, from the colleges and universities where they pursued education to places where they created communities during centuries of migration, the imprint of Americans of African descent is deeply embedded in the narrative of the American past. These sites prompt us to remember and over time became hallowed grounds.” You might encounter descriptions of many of these important locations in African American literature, such as the books mentioned in the article “5 Inspiring Authors to Read During Black History Month.” But why should you be interested in the works of these African American writers?

A Complete Education

History helps you to understand the present. It also helps you to see the consequences of actions and attitudes. African American history is an integral part of American and world history. To appreciate historical events, you need to know more than just the names of people and places or the dates of events. Why did the people involved act in the way that they did? What were the prevailing attitudes of society? How did the social, environmental, political, and religious climate impact the people and events? African American historical novels reveal what was happening in the black community during significant world events. You won’t fully comprehend the past until you examine it from all possible angles.

Exposure to Different Perspectives

If you are not of African descent, you may view the world differently than someone who comes from that background. Of course, the best way to get to know people is to spend time with them in person. However, reading is another great way to consider the world from a perspective other than your own.

Development of Empathy

When you read any literature from another cultural standpoint, you will see differences in the way people of that culture think, speak, and behave. You might be surprised to learn how many similarities you notice. Emotions such as love, anger, curiosity, desire, sorrow, and fear are common to all people. Perceiving these similarities may help you to feel more connected to black Americans as a group. When black Americans read these books, they also feel more connected to their ancestors. Studies prove that reading positive stories about members of your ethnic group increases feelings of self-worth and belonging. Children, adults, blacks, and non-blacks benefit from reading multicultural literature.

Cool Culture

One of the best things about American culture is that it incorporates traditions, cuisine, art, and other facets of many world cultures. By reading literature rooted in African American culture, you may learn that some of the customs you already practice have African origins.

Everyone Loves a Good Book

Why do you read any book? Did you receive a recommendation from a friend or teacher? Does the title intrigue you? Are you looking for specific information? These same factors can move you to read African American literature.

You don’t have to limit your appreciation for black history to the month of February. African American literature is an enjoyable way to celebrate American culture all year round. Whether you do it to fill out your knowledge of world history, to challenge yourself to view things from another perspective, or just to find a good book, you won’t regret exploring this fascinating genre.