Ta-Nehisi Coates Books
Ta-Nehisi Coates is a national correspondent for the Atlantic and the author of The Beautiful Struggle, a memoir that explores Coates’s relationship with his father Paul Coates. In 2014, he won the George Polk Award in Journalism and, in 2015, he won the MacArthur "Genius Grant."
Image Ta-Nehisi Coates: John D. & Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation
What's Between the World and Me about?
Between the World and Me (2015) is an open letter to the author’s 15-year-old son about the realities that Black men face in America. Filled with personal anecdotes about the author’s personal development and experiences with racism, his letter tries to prepare young Black people for the world that awaits them.
Who should read Between the World and Me?
- Anyone interested in race and racism in the United States
- Anyone interested in social issues
- Anyone interested in US history
What's We Were Eight Years in Power about?
We Were Eight Years in Power (2017) reflects on President Barack Obama’s two terms in power and the aftermath of the first Black presidency. These blinks take a candid look at racism and white supremacy throughout American history.
Who should read We Were Eight Years in Power?
- Americans interested in learning about Black experience in the USA
- Anyone who’s concerned about the state of democracy
- Anyone interested in the history and political consequences of racism and white supremacy
The Beautiful Struggle
What's The Beautiful Struggle about?
The Beautiful Struggle is a memoir by Ta-Nehisi Coates that delves into his upbringing in Baltimore during the 1980s and 1990s. Coates reflects on the challenges he faced as a young black man and the influence of his father, a former Black Panther, in shaping his identity. It is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of race, family, and the pursuit of education.
Who should read The Beautiful Struggle?
- People who want to gain an understanding of the African-American experience in America
- Readers interested in memoirs and personal narratives
- Those looking to explore themes of identity, family, and resilience
The Water Dancer
What's The Water Dancer about?
The Water Dancer by Ta-Nehisi Coates is a powerful novel that blends historical fiction with elements of magical realism. Set in the pre-Civil War era, it tells the story of Hiram Walker, a young enslaved man who discovers he has a mysterious power. As he grapples with his own abilities and the brutal reality of slavery, Hiram embarks on a journey towards freedom and self-discovery.
Who should read The Water Dancer?
- Readers who enjoy historical fiction with elements of magical realism
- Those interested in exploring the legacy of slavery and its impact on individuals and society
- People looking for thought-provoking and emotionally resonant storytelling