Black History Inspiring Memoirs That Transform Lives

The carefree days have come to an end. With summer behind us and autumn upon us, it's time to shift focus. However, one can still indulge in riveting history books. Reflect on your roots while exploring “The Black Family Who Built America: The McKissacks, Two Centuries of Daring Pioneers” by Cheryl McKissack Daniel and Nick Chiles (Black Privilege Publishing / Atria, $28.99). This tale begins in West Africa, chronicling Moses McKissack I’s journey from enslavement to economic empowerment through craftsmanship, culminating in a legacy of builders contributing to America’s architectural heritage. For those intrigued by such narratives, “Black Genius: Essays on an American Legacy” by Tre Johnson (Dutton, $30) highlights the resilience and ingenuity of Black Americans, offering profound insights. “Positive Obsession: The Life and Times of Octavia E. Butler” by Susana M. Morris (Amistad, $29.99) revisits the influential writer’s life and timeless lessons. LaShawn Harris’s “Tell Her Story: Eleanor Bumpurs & The Police Killing that Galvanized New York City” (Beacon Press, $35) details a tragedy that ignited change. Finally, “The Strangers: Five Extraordinary Black Men and the Worlds That Made Them” by Ekow Eshun (Harper, $25) profiles remarkable Black men whose stories inspire reflection on individuality. For more enriching...