Recs if you like The Mothers...

this is your reminder to read books by Black authors all month, all year, every year— not just during Black History Month. it’s crucially important to be able to diversify your reading and your bookshelves. expand your mind, your perspectives, your knowledge, and your taste. if you don’t know where to start, here are some recommendations!

Here's every book so far from BOTM's monthly shortlist since February 2015 for anyone who wants to read them all like I do!

Literary and contemporary fiction with Black FMCs that will make your heart break into a million pieces and then knit itself back together (hopefully). Specifically wanted to curate books that all also come with tough topics and hefty doses of warnings for major possible triggers. Check the comments for specific warnings tagged to individual books (mostly major stuff, recommend doing some research before diving in if there are other things you don't want to read about no matter how minor).

Understanding the love we received and needed, and the loving we do. Love as tradition preserved through mothering.

gives you all the tea without stressing about your own. books that changed my worldview (a little bit) and immerse you into someone else's life.

Books centered on characters navigating pregnancy or early motherhood. Reading from differing perspectives on this topic showcases how women from various backgrounds may experience this part of life (even if most on this list are fictional). Their narratives still offer insight into the emotional and psychological realities of pregnancy and early motherhood, and show how it can influence their mental health - for better or for worse.

i cry a lot but these made me SOB