January
We All Want Impossible Things, Catherine Newman
If you love your friends, motherhood, the messiness of middle age and dying, then this is the book to read. I have loved Catherine Newman for a long time–it’s so random, but she writes a great occasional blog (which introduced me to Wednesday Cake!) and has a soft spot for teenagers. I cried and laughed when I read this one, and then immediately called my bestie.
Black Cake, Charmaine Wilkerson
I read this one in a couple of days. Couldn’t put down this family saga held together by secrets and recipes. I immediately thought of some other great texts that would build out a ladder for this one, including Staceyann Chin’s The Other Side of Paradise, among others.
Everyman, M. Shelley Connor
This one came recommended by Son of Baldwin. More Southern family Black drama and super queer. I was HERE FOR IT! I related to the main character’s search to learn her family secrets, her journey back to the South from Chicago, and the storylines that branched from that one. If you read this one, might be good to take notes so you can keep the many people straight.
February
After the Rain: Gentle Reminders for Healing, Courage and Self-Love, Alexandra Elle
Speaks to my heartbrokenness after a tough break up and the work I’m doing to heal myself and never abandon myself again. I particularly appreciated the affirmations throughout and have written some down on post-its to remember this work is worth it. Also makes a great gift.
Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow, Gabrielle Zevin
Love and Rage: The Path of Liberation Through Anger, Lama Rod Owens
March
Any Where You Run, Wanda M. Morris
Marrying the Ketchups, Jennifer Close
Dr. Kimberly N. Parker 