Every October, the UK celebrates Black History Month—a time to honour the achievements, voices, and stories of Black communities past and present. While history, art, and culture all play a role, literature remains one of the most powerful ways to share perspectives and broaden understanding. Books have the ability to transport us into new experiences, challenge assumptions, and celebrate diversity.
At Fox & Fable, we believe that reading books by Black authors is one of the most engaging ways to celebrate Black History Month. Whether you are a teacher looking for classroom resources, a student eager to discover new voices, or a book club searching for your next discussion pick, there is an abundance of talent to explore in 2025.
In this guide, we highlight must-read Black authors in the UK, covering fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and children’s literature. We’ll also show you which titles are especially popular for schools and libraries to buy in bulk.
Why Black Voices Matter in UK Literature
Representation in literature matters. Black authors in the UK bring unique perspectives shaped by history, migration, culture, and identity. Their works open doors to stories that are often underrepresented, making them vital for readers of all backgrounds.
In addition, these books encourage empathy and broaden horizons. For example, novels by Bernardine Evaristo or Caleb Azumah Nelson don’t just tell stories—they create conversations about society, identity, and belonging.
For schools and libraries, including Black authors on the shelf ensures that children see themselves reflected in literature. It also helps all students learn about different experiences, creating a stronger sense of inclusion and cultural awareness.
Fiction: Award-Winning Black Authors to Read
The UK has produced some of the most exciting Black voices in modern fiction. If you’re looking for a starting point, here are some of the standout authors to read in 2025:
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Bernardine Evaristo – Girl, Woman, Other
Winner of the Booker Prize, this multi-layered novel explores the lives of Black women across generations in Britain. It’s an ideal pick for book clubs thanks to its themes of identity, feminism, and family. -
Caleb Azumah Nelson – Small Worlds
Following the success of Open Water, Nelson’s second novel continues to capture love, music, and the Black British experience with lyricism and heart. -
Candice Carty-Williams – People Person
Known for her breakout debut Queenie, Carty-Williams writes contemporary stories full of humour, complexity, and relatable characters. -
Courttia Newland – A River Called Time
A speculative fiction masterpiece, this novel reimagines history and identity in a world untouched by colonialism.
These authors bring both critical acclaim and accessibility, making them great recommendations for casual readers and avid literary fans alike.
Non-Fiction: Understanding History and Identity
Non-fiction by Black authors is essential during Black History Month, offering deeper insight into Britain’s past and present. Some of the most powerful reads include:
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David Olusoga – Black and British: A Forgotten History
A must-have for schools and anyone interested in understanding the often-overlooked role of Black people in British history. -
Afua Hirsch – Brit(ish): On Race, Identity and Belonging
A thought-provoking exploration of identity in modern Britain, blending memoir with cultural critique. -
Reni Eddo-Lodge – Why I’m No Longer Talking to White People About Race
Still one of the most widely read books on race in the UK, this bestseller continues to spark important conversations in workplaces, classrooms, and book clubs.
For educators, these non-fiction works are particularly valuable in teaching students about history, social justice, and cultural awareness.
Poetry and Performance: Voices That Resonate
Poetry has long been a powerful form of expression for Black authors. In 2025, these names stand out:
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Benjamin Zephaniah – Too Black, Too Strong
An influential poet whose works tackle race, politics, and society while remaining accessible for young readers. -
Dean Atta – The Black Flamingo
A verse novel that celebrates identity and queerness, making it particularly popular among schools and young adult readers. -
Warsan Shire – Bless the Daughter Raised by a Voice in Her Head
Known for her work with Beyoncé, Shire brings a lyrical, emotional depth that resonates with readers of all ages.
Children’s Books by Black Authors
Children’s literature is one of the best ways to celebrate Black History Month in classrooms and libraries. In fact, many of these titles are frequently purchased in bulk by schools:
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Malorie Blackman – Noughts & Crosses
A staple in UK classrooms, this YA novel remains one of the most powerful explorations of race, love, and society. -
Floella Benjamin – Coming to England
A moving story based on Benjamin’s real-life experiences of arriving in the UK as part of the Windrush generation. -
Onjali Q. Raúf – The Boy at the Back of the Class
While not exclusively a Black History Month book, Raúf’s storytelling promotes empathy and understanding—perfect for young readers. -
Dapo Adeola – Look Up! (illustrated by Nathan Bryon)
A delightful picture book that encourages curiosity, representation, and confidence in young children.
These titles not only engage children but also encourage discussions around diversity, fairness, and representation.
Perfect Picks for Book Clubs
Book clubs across the UK are increasingly embracing Black authors, both for their literary quality and the conversations they inspire. For example:
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Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo → sparks discussions on feminism and intersectionality.
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Brit(ish) by Afua Hirsch → blends personal narrative with societal critique, making it perfect for debate.
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Open Water by Caleb Azumah Nelson → short yet impactful, offering lyrical prose that resonates with readers.
Choosing one of these books for October ensures that book club members not only enjoy a great read but also engage meaningfully with issues of race, culture, and identity.
Why Schools and Libraries Should Order in Bulk
For teachers, librarians, and administrators, October presents a golden opportunity to refresh book collections with titles by Black authors. Bulk book orders ensure that entire classes can engage with the same text, making discussions richer and more inclusive.
Popular bulk orders include:
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Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman
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Coming to England by Floella Benjamin
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The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta
In addition, schools often bundle these books into diversity packs, ensuring students are exposed to a wide range of voices throughout the academic year.
Final Thoughts
Black History Month is not just about looking back—it’s about celebrating the voices shaping the future of British literature. From Bernardine Evaristo’s groundbreaking fiction to Malorie Blackman’s timeless children’s stories, these authors represent some of the most exciting and essential reading in 2025.
At Fox & Fable, we are committed to helping readers, teachers, and book clubs discover these voices and make them part of their collections.
