List of African-American non-fiction writers facts for kids

African American nonfiction writers have shared amazing stories, ideas, and facts with the world. These talented authors write books and articles that are based on real events, people, and information. They help us learn about history, science, society, and much more. This list introduces some of these important writers and their contributions.

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A

Larry Dell Alexander: Artist and Author

• Larry Dell Alexander (born 1953) is a visual artist who also writes. He is known for sharing his thoughts on Christianity in his books.

Chalmers Archer: Educator and Author

• Chalmers Archer (1928–2014) was an author and educator. He wrote about his experiences and observations, often focusing on education and social issues.

B

Christopher C. Bell: Sharing Insights

• Christopher C. Bell (born 1933) is a writer who has contributed to nonfiction literature. His works often explore different aspects of life and society.

C

Jennie Carter: A Voice in Journalism

• Jennie Carter (1830–1881) was an important journalist and essayist in the 19th century. She used her writing to share her views and report on events of her time.

Julia Ringwood Coston: Pioneering Publisher

• Julia Ringwood Coston was a 19th-century publisher and magazine editor. She made history by starting the very first magazine created specifically for black women.

D

W. E. B. Du Bois: A Leader in Thought

• W. E. B. Du Bois (1868–1963) was a powerful writer, activist, and scholar. He wrote many important books and essays about civil rights and the experiences of African Americans.

G

Henry Louis Gates, Jr.: Exploring Literature and History

• Henry Louis Gates, Jr. (born 1950) is a famous literary critic and a professor at Harvard University. He writes extensively about African American literature and culture.

Lawrence Otis Graham: Law and Best-Selling Books

• Lawrence Otis Graham (born 1962) is an attorney and a speaker. He is also a New York Times best-selling author, known for his books on social issues and success.

John Langston Gwaltney: Understanding People

• John Langston Gwaltney (1928–1998) was an anthropologist. He wrote Drylongso, a book that shares the everyday wisdom and experiences of ordinary African Americans.

H

Karla F.C. Holloway: Scholar and Author

• Karla F.C. Holloway (born 1949) is an author, scholar, and professor at Duke University. Her writings often explore topics related to race, gender, and law.

bell hooks: A Voice for Change

• bell hooks (1952–2021) was a well-known feminist, author, and professor. She wrote many influential books about feminism, race, and class, encouraging people to think critically.

K

Elizabeth Keckley: White House Confidante

• Elizabeth Keckley (1818–1907) wrote a book about her time working for Mary Todd Lincoln in the White House. Her memoir gave a unique look into that historical period.

M

Denise Monique: Sharing a Personal Journey

• Denise Monique (born 1977) is the author of "Despite My Odds: A Memoir," published in February 2020. Her book shares her personal life story.

E. Frederic Morrow: A Pioneer in Politics

• E. Frederic Morrow (c. 1906–1994) wrote Black Man in the White House. This memoir tells about his years as the first African American appointed to a president's administration, from 1955 to 1960.

N

Neil deGrasse Tyson: Exploring the Universe

• Neil deGrasse Tyson (born 1958) is a famous astrophysicist and science communicator. He writes many books and hosts shows that make complex science topics easy and exciting to understand for everyone.

P

Rosa Parks: A Civil Rights Icon

• Rosa Parks (1913–2005) was a brave civil rights leader. While best known for her actions, she also wrote books that shared her experiences and thoughts on the civil rights movement.

S

Thomas Sowell: Economist and Columnist

• Thomas Sowell (born 1930) is a respected economist and a syndicated columnist. He is an academic at the Hoover Institution and writes widely on economics, history, and social policy.

T

Beverly Daniel Tatum: Education and Identity

• Beverly Daniel Tatum is a writer and the former president of Spelman College. She is known for her work and writings on racial identity and education.

Lynn Toler: Judge and Author

• Lynn Toler (born 1959) is an arbitrator known from Divorce Court. She has also written books that offer advice and insights on relationships and life.

Lisa Tolliver: A Voice in Technical Writing

• Lisa Tolliver is an academic-practitioner, editor, journalist, and writer. She contributes to the field of technical writing, making complex information clear and understandable.

W

Cornel West: Philosopher and Public Speaker

• Cornel West (born 1953) is a well-known public intellectual, author, and professor at Princeton University. He writes and speaks on a wide range of topics, including race, justice, and democracy.

Steven Whitehurst: Award-Winning Author

• Steven Whitehurst (born 1967) is an award-winning author. His nonfiction works have been recognized for their quality and impact.

Z

Zamba Zembola: A Historical Account

• Zamba Zembola (born c. 1780) is the supposed author of an 1847 slave narrative. This book, The Life and Adventures of Zamba, an African Negro King; and his Experience of Slavery in South Carolina, shares a powerful story from that time.

See also

• List of African-American authors