Celebrate Black History Month by exploring the rich cultural contributions of Black artists and musicians throughout history. Whether you're a history buff, a music lover, or simply looking to broaden your horizons, we've got you covered with our hand-picked collection of books on display at the Library throughout the month of February.

Illustrated Black History: Honoring the Iconic and the Unseen

by George McCalman with April Reynolds

A gorgeous collection of 145 original portraits that celebrates Black pioneers--famous and little-known--in politics, science, literature, music, and more--with biographical reflections, all created and curated by an award-winning graphic designer. Illustrated Black History is a breathtaking collection of original portraits depicting black heroes--both famous and unsung--who made their mark on activism, science, politics, business, medicine, technology, food, arts, entertainment, and more. Each entry includes a lush drawing or painting by artist George McCalman.

Respect: The Life of Aretha Franklin

by David Ritz

This “comprehensive and illuminating” biography of the Queen of Soul (USA Today) was hailed by Rolling Stone as “a remarkably complex portrait of Aretha Franklin’s music and her tumultuous life.” 

 Afrofuturism: A History of Black Futures

Edited by Kevin M. Strait and Kinshasha Holman Conwil

A gorgeously illustrated companion book to a Smithsonian exhibition exploring the power of Afrofuturism, a lens used to imagine a more empowering future for the Black community through music, art, and speculative fiction. 

Room Full of Mirrors: A Biography of Jimi Hendrix

by Charles R. Cross

Unlock the mystery of musical legend Jimi Hendrix. Charles R. Cross vividly recounts the life of Hendrix, from his difficult childhood in Seattle to his meteoric rise to stardom in the swinging sixties of London, his struggles with fame, and his desire for a normal family life.

August Wilson: A life

By Patti Hartigan

The first authoritative biography of August Wilson, the most important and successful American playwright of the late 20th century, by a theater critic who knew him. August Wilson wrote a series of ten plays celebrating African American life in the 20th century, one play for each decade. No other American playwright has completed such an ambitious oeuvre. 

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^{*Please note: what books are featured on display changes on the 1st of each month This display is available through February 29, 2024}

Kandra G.
Adult Services Supervisor