African American Short Stories

Born into a world that often misunderstands him, twelve-year-old Amari James finds his voice not in words, but in the soaring melodies of classical violin and the free-spirited rhythms of jazz. Raised by his devoted single mother, Simone, he learns that music has the power to illuminate even the darkest moments. From timid recitals in community centers to center stage with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Amari’s journey is a testament to resilience, love, and the magic that happens when a boy with autism dares to let his heart sing.

African American literature is the body of literature produced in the United States by writers of African descent. It begins with the works of such late 18th-century writers as Phillis Wheatley. Before the high point of enslaved people narratives, African-American literature was dominated by autobiographical spiritual narratives. The genre known as slave narratives in the 19th century were accounts by people who had generally escaped from slavery, about their journeys to freedom and ways they claimed their lives.

Previously titled "I Want Love", Daddy's Girl tells the tale of a young woman raised without a father, beginning from childhood.

From the award-winning author of Monster, this collection of powerful and poignant stories about 145th Street—an unforgettable block in the heart of Harlem—celebrates African-American life in all of its glory. “Myers is a master.” —The New York Times Book Review On Harlem’s 145th...

More virtues from Joy. Remember her free-spirit nature as she travels along her path to being of purpose? Well, here are more of her antics. Being able to move into and out of situations allows her to release the yuck and capture the yummy!