MyMunny

Of course, the answer to my rhetorical question is: Yes!

To add to that question, though, it is important to also ask, how much!

I've always found myself lost in the pages of books. Whether it's fiction or non-fiction, books always serve as a means of escape. From building your vocabulary to reducing stress, and preventing age-related cognitive decline, reading books serves as a great way to care for the mind.

While books are important, the question remains, how often do most people read them these days? What about people from different race? Who reads, and for what purposes? One thing I know is that people who develop an appreciation for reading early in life become lifelong readers. In other words, readers saw their parents read.

WHAT ABOUT MAGAZINES? Results from a 2019 survey showed 65 percent of Black respondents had read, at least, one book in the previous 12 month. (Source). In this literate world, is one book a year a sufficient amount of books to read?

Black or African Americans in the United States read an average of 5.7 print magazine issues per month in 2020, higher than the national average of 4.5 issues a month for all American adults that year. (Source) Whether you’re an avid reader or wish you read more, below are 6 books every black teenager must read.

This list is meant to provide stories that affirm what we all know. Check them out and see if you get what I mean. Whether you're an avid reader or not, these books are a great read as they touch on issues most teenagers face daily. Happy reading!

“You have to know what you stand for, not just what you stand against.” ― Laurie Halse Anderson, Speak

Speak focuses on some common issues teenagers face in school today - like rape, sexual harassment, depression, suicide, and bullying.

Sexual assault is a topic that is rarely discussed among teenagers, yet it is a topic that is extremely relevant to them. This book shines light on the importance of friendships, and teaches you how to handle emotions and the need for you to face your problems - no matter how harsh they may appear.

This is a great book for teenagers especially girls. When you hit puberty, there is the pressure to fit in, to blend into society’s definition of beautiful. The Prettiest shows us that it’s okay to be different. You can be into makeup and dressing all cute as long as you’re comfortable with it and not because you’re pressured by society.

While beauty is important, you should not be defined by your looks alone. There is more to you than your looks. The book centers on female objectification and sexual harassment in middle school.

From being a regular kid growing up in the Southside of Chicago to becoming one of the most influential women in history - this is Michelle Obama, Barrack Obama's wife!. Many teenagers struggle to find a sense of belonging, and struggle--sometimes alone--to make sense of the world and their place in it.

From a black girl in a poor neighborhood to one of the most popular First Ladies in America, Michelle has built a strong voice, and there is quite a lot to learn from her experience. First lady, mother, wife, Juris Doctor, Read Dr. Obama's book, and learn all about finding your voice, overcoming fear, and becoming your authentic self.

This book delves into teen depression and suicide. There is a strong need to succeed and make your parents and friends proud. As a teenager, you might be under a lot of pressure - pressure from friends to 'belong', pressure from family to thrive and excel in school, and pressure from the world to act a certain way.

All of this pressure is enough to make teenagers anxious. The book sends a strong message that owning your problems and having a strong support system are important steps to facing your fears.

Looking for a book that paints a clear picture of racism in our society? The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is your go-to book. One of the challenges facing many black teens is finding their voice. The Hate U Give centers on the Black Lives Matter movement, finding your voice, and making a change in the world you live in.

As a teenager, your tough situation doesn’t define you. You still need to remember your truth - you are bold, beautiful, and good. Despite what you’re going through, you are never alone in your fear, frustration, and sadness.

You will often find yourself struggling with your identity you’ll be torn between being your authentic self and what other people want you to be. However, if you stick to your true self, you will find your strength.