Reading books (or listening to audio books) is a wonderful way to learn more about different perspectives, and to broaden your understanding of the experiences of other people. If you’re looking to learn more about racial issues, here are some of my favorite books about racial equality and racial justice, listed in the order that I would recommend reading or listening to them.
Disclosure: Affiliate links have been used in this post, which means if you choose to click through to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The Myth of Equality: Uncovering the Roots of Injustice and Privilege
by Ken Wytsma
{Amazon | Baker Book House | ChristianBook.com}
The Myth of Equality far exceeded my expectations. It was so clear, well-presented, and helpful. I appreciated the author’s honesty and articulate explanation of the history of racial injustice and privilege, as well as suggested steps to remedy unbiblical thinking and behavior.
My black South African husband read it as well and was very impressed. He plans to purchase 10 copies to lead a group discussion at his workplace.
Before I listened to the audio version, I saw that a friend recommended this book online as a good “starting point” for those just entering the conversation about racial justice and equality who are looking for an overview resource to help them understand the issues at hand. After listening to the book, I heartily agree that this is the best starting point. In fact, if you can only read one book on this topic, of the books I’ve read so far, this is the one I would recommend.
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I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness
by Austin Channing Brown
{Amazon | Baker Book House | ChristianBook.com}
I adored this book. I actually read it once, then listened to the audio version a couple years later. Austin is such a talented writer, and brilliantly articulates her experiences as a black woman in America. I highly recommend this book. It’s not too long, gives incredible insights, and provides excellent topics for conversation.
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The Color of Compromise: The Truth about the American Church’s Complicity in Racism
by Jemar Tisby
{Amazon | Baker Book House | ChristianBook.com}
This book is really a history book, and it is well worth the read. It’s heavy going, but so worth it and so important to gain a deeper understanding of what has happened in the past and how it impacts the present. I learned so much, and I’m grateful for the author’s careful, thorough labors to present this work to the world.
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Between the World and Me
by Ta-Nehisi Coates
{Amazon}
I really need to read this one again. It’s a letter from the author to his son, and it’s so deep and profound that I’m sure much of it went over my head . . . but I still managed to grasp enough to realize the power and importance of the author’s perspective. Like the other books on this list, there are some parts that were hard to hear and read — but imagine being the one living the reality. Definitely a thought-provoking, intelligent read.
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The following book is the only one in this post I haven’t read yet, but I’m eager to get my hands on it:
How to Fight Racism: Courageous Christianity and the Journey Toward Racial Justice
by Jemar Tisby
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