The Six Books Angela Davis Recommends Everyone Should Read

If you’re looking for thought-provoking reads that shed light on the struggles against racism, sexism, and class oppression, here are six powerful books Davis would likely recommend.
1. Women, Race and Class by Angela Y. Davis
Women, Race & Class
- 19 min reading time
- audio version available
Davis’ seminal work explores the intersecting oppressions of race, class, and gender through a socialist feminist lens. She examines how capitalism has historically exploited and dehumanized Black women, tracing their experiences from slavery to the modern labor market. A profound analysis that has transformed feminist theory. Get the key ideas on Blinkist in just 19 minutes.
2. Eve by Cat Bohannon
Eve
- 19 min reading time
- audio version available
This thought-provoking sci-fi novel imagines a world where women have become an endangered species. Only a few remain fertile after a pandemic, leading to their detainment and exploitation by the ruling patriarchal order. Eve follows a young woman’s harrowing journey to escape this nightmarish reality and find freedom. A chilling exploration of misogyny, reproductive rights, and the resilience of the human spirit. Get the key ideas on Blinkist in just 19 minutes.
3. The Wretched of the Earth by Frantz Fanon
The Wretched of the Earth
- 22 min reading time
- audio version available
This revolutionary text provides a psychological analysis of the dehumanizing effects of colonialism on colonized peoples. Fanon, a psychiatrist from Martinique, denounces the violence inherent in the colonial system while affirming the necessity of counter-violence and national liberation struggles. A scorching condemnation of imperialism. Get the key ideas on Blinkist in just 22 minutes.
4. The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Malcolm X and Alex Haley
The Autobiography of Malcolm X
- 17 min reading time
- audio version available
The life story of the controversial and influential Black Muslim leader, as told to Alex Haley. From a troubled youth to prison to becoming an iconic voice for Black empowerment and liberation, Malcolm X’s journey exemplifies the struggle for human rights and self-determination. Get the key ideas on Blinkist in just 17 minutes.
5. The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander
The New Jim Crow
- 17 min reading time
- audio version available
Alexander’s groundbreaking work argues that mass incarceration and the War on Drugs have created a new racial caste system in America, disproportionately criminalizing Black men. She exposes how the criminal justice system perpetuates systemic racism and calls for transformative change. Get the key ideas on Blinkist in just 17 minutes.
6. Finding Me by Viola Davis
Finding Me
- 23 min reading time
- audio version available
In this powerful memoir, award-winning actress Viola Davis shares her incredible journey from growing up in abject poverty to becoming one of the most respected artists of our time. She recounts the adversity she faced, from her childhood experiences with hunger, abuse, and racial discrimination to the challenges of making it in Hollywood. Davis’ raw and honest storytelling inspires readers to embrace their truths and persist despite immense odds. A testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of owning your story. Get the key ideas on Blinkist in just 23 minutes.
These thought-provoking books offer invaluable insights into the interconnected struggles against racism, sexism, capitalism, and state violence. By understanding the roots of oppression, we can work towards collective liberation. Take the first step by adding these reads to your Blinkist library today!
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