A starting shelf

Updated September 2026

Three books by Black women writers, offered as starting points rather than a record of past club selections. These notes draw on the linked publisher and public reading resources. They aren't personal reviews, ratings or claims that our community has already read the books.

Passing

Nella Larsen

A novel about race, identity and the relationship between Irene Redfield and Clare Kendry. Start with our questions, or read the publisher's introduction.

Kindred

Octavia E. Butler

Historical and speculative storytelling meets the violence of American slavery. Consider how a story's form changes the distance between a reader and history.

Publisher's description and audiobook edition. Other editions may have different pagination or narration. Content includes slavery and violence; this short note isn't exhaustive.

Their Eyes Were Watching God

Zora Neale Hurston

A reading choice for exploring Janie Crawford's voice, storytelling and self-determination. Ask who gets to tell a life, and who is expected to listen.

The National Endowment for the Arts reading resource supplies background and fuller discussion material. It includes plot details, so save it for later if you prefer to avoid spoilers.

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