I got a couple of e-mails asking me what books would I recommend they get for other people for the holidays.It's hard. I'm friends with many writers, and never want to slight anyone.
And, asking about which books I like is like asking someone if they want a Pomegranate or Lemon Drop martini. They're all good, just depends on the flavor you want.
This year, I've highlighted a number of books that I've read. Usually, that means it's something I would pass along. Some of those have included books by Tayari Jones, Denise Hamilton, Kerry Madden, Pearl Cleage, Darrious Hilmon, and others. Many, many others...
Regarding books related to the black gay and lesbian community, I would definitely say pick up Beyond The Down Low by Keith Boykin. But there are a number of great writers and friends I've made this year while out touring for Down For Whatever. There is indeed a "Renaissance" happening, and black LGBT fiction is coming from all over the country. Check out this list on Amazon, highlighting black gay and lesbian focused literature, by T. Kelley. It's really good, comprehensive and can help with your book-buying decisions. It includes books by folks like Keith, Rashid Darden, Alphonso Morgan, Trent Jackson, and Dayne Avery, and many many others.
Other than that, if you're unsure of specific books to buy, store gift certificates are excellent for the reader in your life. And... especially those certificates from your local, independent booksellers. We gotta help keep them in business, you know?
What books will you be buying for folks this holiday season? Or asking for on your holiday wish list?
fs
2 comments:
Mr. Smith, thank you for the mention of the list on Amazon. I made it because I have enjoyed your writing and that of the other authors on the list. All of you deserve much more praise than I can ever hope to give you. Please, continue to write and make your voices heard like the not so quiet gay and lesbian voices of the Harlem Renaissance.
thanks for posting this.
I have returned to reading non-academic books and it's been awesome. So far, I have read Boykin's "Beyond The Down Low", your "Down For Whatever", Morgan's "Sons", Clay's "In Search of Pretty Young Black Men", Zadie Smith's "On Beauty" and "White Teeth" and Percival Everett's "Wounded". I have also been catching up on my Toni Morrison.
I'll check out some of the books on the amazon list.
PS - thanks for leaving a comment on my blog. I appreciate it.
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