February brings in love, Mardi Gras, and the most important of all - Black history. And here at U.A.D, we love black folk.
If you’re down for a good movie and book, here are five of our favorite novels with film adaptations to help you celebrate Black History.
Passing (1929) by Nella Larsen
Passing focuses on two childhood friends, both African American, but one is white-passing. Based on her fair skin, she lives life as a white woman with a white husband, while reaping the benefits of white privilege. But what’s done in the dark, comes to the light. One decision and a skewed reality changes the lives of many. Nella Larsen explores the topics of race, gender, and sexuality.
The Color Purple (1982) by Alice Walker
The Color Purple takes the audience on a young woman's journey through trauma, abuse, pregnancy, faith, and triumphs. Yes, the novel goes into greater depth than the movie, but both pieces of literature receive high praise and exceed high expectations.
Beloved (1987) by Toni Morrison
Beloved has always been one of my favorites. The novel is set after the Civil War and follows a slave who unalive her children in fear of returning to slavery. A spirit visits the family and reveals a secret. Inspired by the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 and The Atlantic Slave Trade, Toni Morrison explores the depth of relationships and traumatic effects of slavery.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X (1965) by Alex Haley & Malcolm X
Malcolm X was a prominent figure during The Civil Rights era. Often challenging the nonviolent proposal of Civil Rights, Malcolm X had a different approach. He stood for black activism, black rights, and black freedom.
Erasure (2021) by Percival Everett
Realizing the stereotypes and chaos of the Black community is a hot commodity and can create revenue, Percival shows how ignorance and satire will always sell, but would you sell yourself in the process for the love of money?
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