Okay, let’s talk about it — because clearly the publishing industry won’t. Black authors stay giving us everything: messy romances, out-of-this-world fantasy, thrillers that keep you up at night, self-help that speaks straight to your soul. And yet… the recognition? The sales? The push? Not nearly where it should be.
The Industry Problem 👀
Publishing has a long history of acting like Black stories are “niche.” If it’s not trauma or a very specific narrative, suddenly it’s “too risky.” Meanwhile, mediocre books from other authors get six-figure promo budgets and prime front table spots at every bookstore. Make it make sense.
Marketing & Shelf Space 📉
Let’s be real: when was the last time you walked into a big chain bookstore and saw more than a tiny “African American” section in the back? Why aren’t Black authors being placed right next to the so-called bestsellers? Why are they always marketed to just us instead of everyone? The system is built to keep Black books in the shadows.
Reader Bias 👓
Here’s another truth bomb: some readers avoid Black authors because they assume the books won’t “relate to them.” Like… since when do we only read about people who look like us? That excuse is tired. Black authors write universal stories. Period.
So What Can We Do? ✊🏾
Listen, as readers we hold more power than we think. Every time we:
Buy a Black book new (not just used)
Review it on Goodreads, Amazon, TikTok, IG, wherever
Talk about it with friends, coworkers, book clubs
Gift it, recommend it, or make it go viral
…we’re pushing back against an industry that’s happy to overlook Black voices.
Final Word 🖤
Black authors don’t need handouts. They don’t need pity. They need what every author deserves: visibility, marketing, and readers who show up. So let’s show up. Let’s scream about their books like we do for BookTok darlings. Let’s make sure their work isn’t just seen, but celebrated.
Because honestly? Black authors been giving. It’s time the world caught up.
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