African American Books for Teen Girls

History

African American literature, especially for teen girls, has a relatively short historical period compared with classical literature. Though there are pieces of African American literature from the 18th century, few African American writers became well-known until the mid-19th century, when fiction like "Uncle Tom's Cabin" by Harriet Beecher Stowe and slave narratives by Frederick Douglass came out, offering opinions and views on slavery previously unknown. Reading both of these books can offer teen girls insight into a major historical era.

African American literature comes in all shapes and sizes, and exploring an entire collection gives more to a young girl than reading only one type of book. African American fiction, written for teenagers and adults, create an imaginary world, though often realistic and keeping a strong historical perspective. Poetry, especially by prominent contemporary writers (Maya Angelou), paints pictures with words, creating vivid imagery and posing questions and thoughts in shorter, inspiring works. Read non-fiction historical narratives or social perspective books (which deal with issues many young African American girls face today).

Whether social, literary or political, African American literature exposes young girls of all races and backgrounds to another world. African American literature openly shows the improvement of the African Americans in society, politics and the arts, while still maintaining a sober memory of past hardships and difficulties--slavery, oppression and current struggles of a race. Young girls reading African American literature gain inspiration, knowledge and a greater understanding of the world surrounding them.

Every teen girl is different. Finding the right book to read is important. For some, a young adult novel like "Bird" by Angela Johnson proves an easier read, connecting to a young girl personally while still being relevant. Other teen girls may find novels like "Beloved" by Toni Morrison or "The Color Purple" by Alice Walker more dramatic, challenging and insightful, though graphic. Consider your reading and maturity levels---African American literature, often based on accurate historical events, can include intense stories and emotionally difficult situations.

Young girls reading African American literature learn and grow from their literary experiences. The race of the reader is not important; the teen girl does not have to be an African American to gain experience and understanding from a good book. Writers and artists are inspired to create from their own encounters with great works, and social advocates and politicians work for a cause. African American literature provides the potential for a young girl, no matter her own background, to change and grow, perhaps into an artist or writer, or work for change.