Are There New Black YA Books Coming Out In 2023?

Seems like the lists are finally catching up! Everyone's talking about Zakiya Dalila Harris's 'The Other Black Girl' follow-up, but I'm way more hyped for 'The Caretaker' by Ron Rash—wait, no, that's not it. Hang on. My brain's fried. The one I keep refreshing the pre-order page for is Namina Forna's 'The Gilded Ones' third book, 'The Eternal Ones'. The wait has felt endless since book two's cliffhanger. Also, keep an eye on Kalynn Bayron; she's got a new YA fantasy slated for late this year, though the title's escaping me. Her vampire book was a riot. Beyond the obvious big names, I stumbled on this debut novelist, Chelsea T. Hicks, through an indie bookstore newsletter. Her book 'The Blue House' is a literary fiction piece about a family reunion in the South. It doesn't have a huge marketing push, but the early reader reviews praising its quiet, precise prose have me really intrigued. Sometimes the books you aren't bombarded with ads for end up being the ones that stick with you.

One standout for me this year has been 'The God of Good Looks' by Breanne McIvor—it’s this vibrant, sharp-witted novel set in Trinidad’s beauty industry, blending satire with heart. McIvor’s prose is like a carnival burst of color, and her protagonist’s journey from outsider to power player is addictive. Then there’s 'Family Lore' by Elizabeth Acevedo, a poetic exploration of Dominican sisters and their mystical gifts. Acevedo’s lyrical voice turns family drama into something magical, and the way she weaves Spanish into English feels effortless and rich. On the nonfiction side, 'How to Say Babylon' by Safiya Sinclair is a memoir that reads like epic poetry. Her upbringing in a strict Rastafarian household and her rebellion through writing is gripping. Also, don’t skip 'Let Us Descend' by Jesmyn Ward—her haunting reimagining of Dante’s Inferno through the lens of an enslaved girl is a masterpiece. Ward’s ability to merge brutal history with mythic beauty is unmatched.

I’ve noticed 2024 is shaping up to be an incredible year for diverse representation. One standout is 'This Day Changes Everything' by Edward Underhill, featuring a nonbinary protagonist navigating a whirlwind romance during a chaotic train ride. The book beautifully captures the fluidity of identity and first love. Another gem is 'Where the Rhythm Takes You' by Sarah Dass, a Caribbean-inspired retelling of 'Persuasion' with a strong Black heroine rediscovering herself through music and family legacy. For fantasy lovers, 'The Poisons We Drink' by Bethany Baptiste offers a dark, witchy tale with a Black protagonist fighting systemic oppression in a magically divided America. It’s raw, powerful, and unapologetically political. On the contemporary side, 'The Boy You Always Wanted' by Michelle Quach explores cultural expectations through a Vietnamese-American girl’s journey to fulfill her grandfather’s last wish. Each of these books not only celebrates diversity but also weaves it seamlessly into gripping narratives that resonate deeply.

there are some fantastic black romance novels hitting the shelves this year. One that's already generating buzz is 'The Neighbor Favor' by Kristina Forest, a sweet and steamy story about a shy book editor who asks her charming neighbor to help her land a date. Another anticipated release is 'Before I Let Go' by Kennedy Ryan, which promises an emotional second-chance romance with deep character development. For those who love a bit of suspense with their romance, 'The Hookup Plan' by Farrah Rochon mixes humor, heart, and a dash of workplace drama. These books are just the tip of the iceberg, and I can't wait to dive into them.

This year has been phenomenal for black YA literature, and as an avid reader, I can’t help but share a few gems! One book that instantly comes to mind is 'The Gilded Ones' by Namina Forna. Set in a rich fantasy world, it dives deep into themes of identity, gender, and societal expectations while delivering an exhilarating story. The protagonist, Deka, grapples with her fate in a society that values conformity, making her journey both relatable and captivating. Forna's writing is immersive, pulling you into Deka's struggles and triumphs in a way that stays with you long after you close the book. Then there's 'Concrete Rose' by Angie Thomas, which acts as a prequel to 'The Hate U Give'. Following Maverick Carter, it combines the harsh realities of life with a narrative that explores fatherhood, community, and redemption. The emotional depth in Thomas's work is something I really appreciate; she crafts characters that feel real and situations that resonate with readers on various levels. Lastly, I absolutely recommend 'Cemetery Boys' by Aiden Thomas. It's a touching blend of supernatural elements and cultural significance, focusing on Yadriel, a trans boy determined to prove himself to his family. The exploration of love, identity, and acceptance is poignant, and the mystery keeps you on your toes. All these titles stand out not just for their storytelling but for the way they tackle important issues while being incredibly entertaining. So, if you’re looking for engaging stories with heart, these are must-reads!

It’s hard not to get excited when talking about black young adult literature! One title that really stands out to me is 'The Hate U Give' by Angie Thomas. This book could resonate with so many teens today with its exploration of racial injustice, identity, and standing up for what's right. The main character, Starr, navigates the complexities of her life between her neighborhood and her fancy school, which is something a lot of teens can relate to, even if their experiences differ. When I read it, I found myself really reflecting on how societal issues relate to individual experiences, and that kind of introspection is so valuable! Another great one is 'Children of Blood and Bone' by Tomi Adeyemi. Now, talk about a powerful fantasy! It’s got that perfect mix of magic and adventure, but at its core, it deals with themes of oppression and resilience. I mean, who doesn’t want to root for Zélie as she fights for her people? The world-building is rich and lush, making you feel so immersed. Fantasy can serve as a wonderful escape, and with its powerful messages, this one really hits home. The emotions are real, and I think teens craving fantasy with depth will absolutely connect with this. Then there’s 'Clap When You Land' by Elizabeth Acevedo, which is a beautiful, heart-rending exploration of family. It’s written in verse, making it a quick read, but the emotional weight is incredible. The story revolves around two sisters who discover each other after their father’s death, and it’s such a poignant reflection on grief, love, and missed opportunities. I found it beautiful how Acevedo captures those nuanced feelings that can be so complicated to express. Reading this could encourage teens to think deeply about family, connection, and how we communicate our feelings. Guys, if you haven’t picked these up yet, do yourself a favor! They're more than just books; they're experiences that can inspire change and empathy!

Exploring the world of black YA literature has been a transformative journey for me. There’s an incredible variety out there that features authentic voices and addresses important themes. First off, 'The Hate U Give' by Angie Thomas is an absolute powerhouse. It follows Starr Carter, a girl who witnesses her friend being shot by a police officer. This book beautifully captures the complexities of race, friendship, and activism—such a gripping read that makes you think and feel deeply. Another fantastic read is 'Children of Blood and Bone' by Tomi Adeyemi. Not only is it rooted in African mythology, but it also explores themes of oppression and resilience. It's packed with action, strong characters, and a rich world reminiscent of 'Avatar: The Last Airbender', which I loved as a kid. Every twist and turn keeps you on your toes, and it’s just so empowering to see a fantasy landscape that reflects diverse experiences. Also, don’t overlook 'You'll Miss Me When I'm Gone' by Rachel Lynn Solomon. It features the intricate dynamics of twin sisters, showcasing mental health and familial relationships through a poignant lens. These narratives truly express what it means to navigate life's challenges, and they’ve made me reflect on my own experiences intensely. There are so many stories waiting to be read, and these are just the tip of the iceberg!