“Black teens across the diaspora deserve the opportunity to read Black books that inform, inspire, and lead them to higher creative pursuits. “

-Dr. Tiffany A. Flowers

Inspiration for the Project: After moderating a panel for Black girls in Iowa at the University of Northern Iowa African American Children and Families Conference, I was inspired by their testimonies. The majority of the Black girls stated that they did not have access to information about themselves outside of slavery. The lack of experience they described and their thirst for learning about Black history, literature, and culture is what inspired this project. I decided to create a project which informs all teens who stumble across this project about Black history, literature, and culture.   

 I also wanted to create a project which inspires all Black teens to greater heights. Although the project was initially designed and requested for Black girls, I knew from my own research on Black males that they need access to projects of this magnitude as well. As Black professors, we must take every opportunity to lead, inform, and inspire children around the globe. As I stated during the Black girls panel, if you want to find a really great read about Black culture, history, and literature, ask a Black professor.

The purpose of this digital project is to compile an online digital collection for high school students across the United States and abroad. The main premise behind this project is for Black professors to recommend Black authors which inspired their work, self-education, or development as scholars. 

The videos in this collection will include recommendations from frequently challenged books to classic Black literature. Please click on the tabs to find out how to participate as a professor, student, teacher, librarian/media specialist, parents, and allies.