These works confront America’s deeply racist history and present, and at the same time, explore healing, accompanied by bursts of joy, light and love.

The movie, based on the book of the same name, falls short of the unsettling themes its predecessor succeeds at. Its failure results in a film that doesn’t know what it is.

Take a book, leave a book. These book exchanges allow for both self-enlightenment and an interconnected community, all while showing that following your passions can lead to real change.

The Netflix show is based on ‘The Turn of the Screw’ and other stories by Henry James. Here are the similarities and differences.

The latest book from Joshua Whitehead is a deeply moving novel about what home means to a queer Native American kid who is struggling with his identity.

More well-known for her young adult work, V.E. Schwab has penned a novel about a protagonist who has acquired immortality — but at an incredible cost.

With the recent discovery of possible life on Earth’s twin, here are some sci-fi books about life on the planet.

The author is making a name for herself with popular horror novels that feature underrepresented sapphic characters.

The poet’s forthcoming book is a collection of poetry that embraces change — a topic that is well-needed during these chaotic times.

Set in an unfortunate future, this novel tells of war, family and the need to find something to believe in.

The R&B icon’s memoir is a story chronicled by a woman who has known brokenness and imprisonment, but has found her light at the end of the tunnel.

Not everyone can handle hardcore horror, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some creepy fall reads. If you’re a scaredy-cat, like me, this list is for you.

J. K. Rowling’s beloved book series has warmed readers’ hearts for decades. What makes them better than their film counterparts?

This special time highlights the power of language to challenge our social, political and cultural assumptions.

This self-help book from Nina Karnikowski will open your mind to the possibilities that arise from deciding to chase your dreams.

Amanda Montell’s 2019 book examines how adjusting the words that we use can alter how gender and sexuality are considered in today’s society — for the better.

Most readers already know the story, so how does exploring the tale from the perspective of the iconic vampire bring something new to the beloved series?

Helen Hoang’s novel paints a rich portrait of an autistic heroine, captivating readers by avoiding one-dimensional stereotypes that have long persisted in media.

The genre provides the perfect mix of escapism and grounding insight when ‘normal’ feels far off.

This amazing feat in storytelling and artistic vision delves into areas often left unexplored by graphic novels and horror.

Paper lovers have turned to the video-sharing app to forge their own peaceful corner on a platform full of chaos.

If you find yourself short on room, here are some ways to organize your literature collection without shelling out more money for extra bookcases.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is likely the most famous composer ever, but did you know he had an older sister who was just as talented as he was?

The ever-popular series uses incredible world-building to offer a critique of those that invoke a higher power to justify their influence.

In her 2019 book, the comedian beautifully articulates a fascination with the ordinary, which just might be the key to true happiness, especially during the pandemic.

Few authors captured the human experience, particularly the Black experience, with as much nuance as her.

This digital comic blends manga influences with Disney-inspired artwork to create a compelling tale of romance by the sea.

Kacen Callender’s young adult novel features a queer trans person of color amid friendships, love and a heartwarming journey of self-acceptance.

The genre can be fickle with its trends. However, this series seems to have the hang of these new fads with its fresh take on old tropes.

The author’s second novel, which follows a grandmother and granddaughter, puts family and community at the forefront but lacks balance in its storytelling.

HBO’s show offers a crystal clear picture of why communities need new ways to resolve conflicts and combat interpersonal violence.

This plot device is one of the most overdone romantic clichés out there. Should it be left behind, or is there a way to make it new again?

The touching but heartwrenching World War II novel explores a Jewish girl’s hope-filled journey to find community in a war-ravaged Germany.

The book is full of social media, insane baked goods and a love story you can’t help but root for.

The Lee Chang-dong film adaptation of the critically acclaimed author’s short story may have changed a few details, but it maintains the spirit of the work.

Karen M. McManus’ young adult mystery novel both upholds and defies the tropes of the classic ’80s movie.

Surfing the internet might take time away from your beloved books, but these blogs are the perfect companions to your favorite novels.

The novel explores the long process of a guarded teenager finding belonging in her last foster home after a lifetime of letdowns.

The novel’s heartbreaking exploration of divorce and loss allows its exquisite friendships and familial connections to take center stage.

In her new book, Brit Bennett dissects extremely relevant issues with memorable characters and excellent storytelling.

Have you always wanted to start a journal, but didn’t know where to begin? Try one of these simple techniques to get started on your daily journaling journey.

Scott O’Connor has a unique and fearless writing style that will immerse you in the novel and make you feel like you’re part of the story.

Victor LaValle’s story blends fantastical elements with the very real issues of racism and violence, all against the backdrop of the urban landscape.

The new book written by Donald’s niece exhumes decades of corruption and greed in the Trump empire, even before her uncle entered the White House.

People who share protagonists’ identities shouldn’t only author books. Their feedback can vastly improve how books represent marginalized groups.

The open letter against ‘cancel culture’ was mostly signed by people with enormous influence — those who least need to worry about ‘cancellation.’

The psychological realism of Laura van den Berg’s second book parallels the isolation many are feeling during the pandemic.

After receiving harsh criticism from her colleagues, the former columnist speaks of the grim consequences for people that go against the grain.

In her new book, Samantha Mabry shows readers that vulnerability and independence are not mutually exclusive.

Instead of villainizing technology just because it’s trendy, Cal Newport makes a compelling case for satisfaction that runs deeper than pings and pixels.

In her memoir, Carmen Maria Machado documents her experiences in an abusive queer relationship, telling a story that often goes untold.

The concept provides an artistic and powerful way to engage in social change by coaxing our imagination to connect us to the voices of the past.

Now more than ever, people are calling on brands to step up. The culture magazine took another step in the right direction by having Dario Calmese shoot their cover.

With videos ranging from book reviews to bookshelf tours to group reads, this online community is more than just a virtual book club.

The philosopher’s theories of the ‘studium’ and the ‘punctum’ explains why we prefer certain creative works over others.

There’s no shame in dropping a book that you have no desire to read.

Khalil Gibran Muhammad’s exploration of African Americans during the Progressive Era unveils the prejudice behind evidence of Black criminality.

Whether you want to be a prestigious journalist or write the next bestselling fantasy novel, these tips will help you build a following.

Asexuality and aromanticism are seemingly impossible to find in mainstream pop culture, but what if we look beyond the labels?

Whether your goal is to cut back on wasted screen time, increase your cultural knowledge, or learn self-patience, this app is a necessity.

This exercise is one of the best ways to help authors overcome feeling stuck. Following certain guidelines of the practice will ensure success.

In her book ‘Sweet Remedies,’ herbalist and apothecary Dawn Combs spills the beans on honey-based drinks and confectionery.

‘Such a Fun Age’ and ‘Little Fires Everywhere’ illustrate that just avoiding overt racism isn’t enough to combat white supremacy on a systemic level.

It is more important than ever to remember the teachings of renowned Black feminist scholar as we consider empathy in our own communities.

The graphic novel by Raina Telgemeier captures the struggle of being diagnosed — and living with — a chronic illness.

Amy Poehler, Hope Jahren and James Comey reveal that although success seems bright and shiny from the outside, the journey there is often bumpy.

Though Robin DiAngelo’s book clearly comes from a well-meaning place, does the book undermine the possibility for working-class solidarity across races?

So-called ‘portal fantasy’ reveals the awe, fear and transformative power of traveling to another world — one that might be appealing in our present dystopia.

Just because the author has revealed her transphobia doesn’t mean fans have to completely abandon the the franchise. Instead, they can reclaim it.

Alan Moore’s comics explored a character’s psyche that continues to resonate with contemporary politics, albeit for the wrong reasons.

The ‘Divergent’ author’s newest novel revitalizes the tired ‘chosen one’ trope by weaving a compelling narrative about what happens to heroes after saving the world.

They are often essential community institutions, and their continued survival during the pandemic is now more important than ever.

In light of the chaos coming out of Washington D.C. today, this book is the perfect read to cure your woes.

Susan Choi’s novel defies conventional wisdom about fiction and intentionally creates characters that are hard to relate to — making a unique, compelling read in the process.

Saeed Jones’ memoir is an honest and striking coming-of-age story about the Black queer experience and fighting to become yourself.

The Hulu miniseries uses everyday scenes to take on an all too persistent problem in the fight for racial equality.

Beth O’Leary’s debut novel, which features a very unusual living arrangement, makes the case for the genre as possessing real emotional depth.

Julie Berry mixes the gods of Ancient Greece with romance and World War I, all in a novel that portrays the violence of white supremacy. 

In this memoir, the comedian uses his personal experiences in South Africa and the U.S. to outline the fundamental irrationality behind racism — and why it continues to flourish.

Almost everything magical in the fantasy series relies on the use of animals in some shape or form. Is it even possible for a vegan to live in this world, and would they even want to?

American pop culture has been defined by black excellence for decades. From Gordon Parks to Aaliyah, black artists continue to influence the new generation.

The Mason family left an imprint on the West Hollywood queer scene with their shop. Years later, members of the community talk of its unwavering relevance.

During times like these, creatives have way too much time on their hands. One result: killer web comics with deadly serious undertones.

Once a cherished author, the ‘Harry Potter’ writer has fallen from grace due to her continued ignorance regarding trans and other members of the queer community.

For fans who just finished the series, leaving the world they’ve come to love just isn’t an option. Fortunately, they don’t have to.

Written on a prison typewriter, the novel tells the story of a young man who falls in love, joins the war and robs banks to pay for heroin  — a tale not unlike the author’s own life.

At first glance, ‘The Hunger Games’ prequel has flat characters and a dull Hunger Games. However, is Suzanne Collins just challenging readers to reflect on how they view violence in entertainment?

Eric Cervini’s historical opus describes how homophobia within American law enforcement bears a striking resemblance to racist policing practices.

This wildly popular, binge-worthy web comic takes the myth of Hades and Persephone and sticks it into today’s world.

All good things must come to an end. By constantly amending their works, authors like J.K. Rowling risk ruining their books — and stunting the growth of young fan fiction writers.

In attempts to combat the lack of diversity, writers from non-marginalized communities often miss the mark when writing about groups they don’t identify with.

Suzanne Collins’ new prequel to the ‘Hunger Games’ trilogy investigates the origins of the series’s central villain, President Snow, without justifying his hunger for power.

As June begins and protests over racial injustice continue, it’s important to make space for queer black literature.

The acclaimed novelist writes that, much like writing, running requires deliberate practice, even when you don’t feel completely passionate about it.

Framed as a series of letters to her daughters, the star comedian uses her book to explore life experiences, inequality and her culture with her trademark vulgar hilarity.

Published in 2017, Paul Butler’s book equips supporters of Black Lives Matter with one more important resource to curb racism in law enforcement.

Using the small publishing platform, the ‘After’ author was able to make a name for herself — and at the same time, raise the possibility that others could do the same.

Although the stories of Greek gods and goddesses may originate from thousands of years ago, the lessons they give to us still resonate today.

Even nearly 20 years later, this classic graphic novel from the author of ‘Persepolis’ stands up for women, not just in Iran, but worldwide.

From the intricacies of penguin poop to the origin of bellybutton lint, these works will answer questions you didn’t even think to ask.