10 Winter Reading List Titles for Black History Month 2026
- Joao Nsita
- 6 minutes ago
- 9 min read
As the winter chill settles in and we approach February, the literary world prepares to celebrate Black History Month with a vibrant array of new voices and established storytellers. Winter 2026 promises to be an exceptional season for Black literature, offering readers a chance to hibernate with stories that warm the soul, challenge the mind, and transport us to different worlds.
From high-stakes fantasy and chilling horror to sweeping historical sagas and heartwarming romance, this year's lineup showcases the immense diversity and depth of Black storytelling. The theme for Black History Month 2026, "A Century of Black History Commemorations," invites us to look back at the legacy of those who came before while celebrating the future of Black art. There is no better way to honor this tradition than by supporting the incredible authors releasing work this season.
We have curated a list of 10 essential titles by Black authors hitting the shelves in Winter 2026. Whether you are looking for a cozy mystery to curl up with by the fire or a thought-provoking memoir to start your year with purpose, this list has something for everyone.
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10. Score by Kennedy Ryan
Release Date: Winter 2026 Genre: Contemporary Romance
Kicking off our list at number 10 is the queen of emotional, soul-stirring romance, Kennedy Ryan. Known for her ability to weave complex social issues into deeply passionate love stories, Ryan returns with Score. While details are being kept under wraps, readers can expect her signature blend of intense chemistry, raw emotion, and characters who feel like real people navigating the messy beauty of life.
Kennedy Ryan has a gift for writing "winter romances" that aren't just about snow and hot cocoa, but about the warmth of human connection in cold times. Her characters often face significant personal growth, making her books perfect for the start of a new year when we are all reflecting on our own journeys. If you loved her Hoops series or Before I Let Go, Score is a mandatory addition to your TBR pile. It promises to be the kind of book that keeps you up way past your bedtime, turning pages with bated breath.
Pair this spicy read with a sweet treat like our Playful Piñata Cookies for the ultimate cozy night in.
9. Heir of Prophecy by Analeigh Sbrana
Release Date: Winter 2026 Genre: Fantasy
At number 9, we have a stunning new entry in the fantasy genre from Analeigh Sbrana. Heir of Prophecy invites readers into a lush, imaginative world where magic and destiny collide. Sbrana is known for her lyrical prose and ability to create atmospheric settings that feel tangible.
For fantasy lovers, winter is the perfect time to escape into a new realm. Heir of Prophecy offers a rich narrative that explores themes of legacy, power, and identity. The "chosen one" trope is reimagined here through a fresh lens, likely featuring a protagonist who must grapple with the weight of their heritage—a fitting theme for Black History Month. Expect intricate world-building, high stakes, and a story that celebrates Black girl magic in its most literal form.
Fuel your fantasy marathon with a hearty meal like our Deliciously Perfect Roast Turkey, perfect for a winter feast.
8. With Love from Harlem by ReShonda Tate
Release Date: Winter 2026 Genre: Historical Fiction
Number 8 takes us back in time with With Love from Harlem by ReShonda Tate. Historical fiction is a staple of Black History Month reading lists, and Tate is a master of the genre. This novel promises to transport readers to the vibrant, cultural renaissance of Harlem, likely exploring the lives of women who shaped the era.
Tate’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling bring history to life, making the past feel immediate and relevant. This book is expected to be a love letter to Harlem, capturing the music, the art, and the spirit of a community that changed the world. It is the perfect read for those who want to be educated and entertained simultaneously, offering a window into the joys and struggles of Black history that textbooks often overlook.
While reading about Harlem's rich history, enjoy a comforting bowl of The Ultimate 'Marry Me Chicken' Soup.
7. The Heirs by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
Release Date: Winter 2026 Genre: YA Thriller
Coming in at number 7 is The Heirs by the instant New York Times bestselling author Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé. After the massive success of Ace of Spades, Àbíké-Íyímídé returns with another gripping thriller that dissects class, race, and privilege in academic settings.
The Heirs is perfect for fans of Gossip Girl and Get Out. It promises dark secrets, twisted plots, and social commentary that bites. Winter is the ideal season for a thriller—the long, dark nights set the mood perfectly for a story that keeps you looking over your shoulder. This book will likely challenge readers to confront uncomfortable truths about systemic inequality while delivering a pulse-pounding mystery that is impossible to put down.
Calm your nerves after a suspenseful chapter with our Easy & Delicious Berry Chantilly Cake.
6. Love by the Book by Jessica George
Release Date: Winter 2026 Genre: Contemporary Fiction
At number 6, we have Love by the Book by Jessica George, the acclaimed author of Maame. George has established herself as a powerful voice in contemporary fiction, writing with humor, heart, and a deep understanding of the modern Black British experience.
This novel is expected to explore themes of friendship, career, and the messy reality of finding love in the digital age. George’s characters are often relatable, flawed, and deeply lovable. Love by the Book sounds like the perfect cozy read for a winter weekend—a story about finding yourself between the pages of a life you are trying to write. It celebrates the power of literature and the connections we forge through stories.
Enjoy this contemporary tale with a warm serving of Delicious Thai Red Curry Noodle Soup.
5. Burn Down Master's House by Clay Cane
Release Date: Winter 2026 Genre: Non-Fiction / History
Number 5 is a powerful work of non-fiction by Clay Cane. Burn Down Master's House is a provocative and necessary addition to any Black History Month reading list. Cane is known for his incisive cultural commentary and ability to unearth hard truths.
This book is likely to challenge established narratives and offer a searing critique of systemic oppression. It fits perfectly with the 2026 BHM theme of commemoration and reflection. Reading non-fiction in winter allows for deep contemplation and learning. Cane’s work empowers readers with knowledge and context, making it an essential tool for anyone looking to understand the current moment through the lens of history.
Digest this heavy hitting non-fiction with a side of Deliciously Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup.
4. On Sundays She Picked Flowers by Yah Yah Scholfield
Release Date: January 27, 2026 Genre: Horror / Southern Gothic
At number 4, we have a chilling entry perfect for the bleak midwinter. On Sundays She Picked Flowers by Yah Yah Scholfield is a horror novel that promises to unsettle and captivate. Scholfield’s writing is often described as visceral and haunting, tapping into the rich tradition of Black horror.
Set against a Southern Gothic backdrop, this story likely weaves folklore, trauma, and the supernatural into a terrifying tapestry. Winter is the traditional season for ghost stories, and this book offers a fresh, culturally specific take on the genre. It explores the horrors of the past and how they manifest in the present, making it a poignant, if terrifying, read for Black History Month.
Comfort yourself after a scare with our Deliciously Chewy Butter Pecan Cookies.
3. The Missed Connection by Tia Williams
Release Date: Winter 2026 Genre: Romance / Fiction
Number 3 brings us back to love with The Missed Connection by Tia Williams. The author of Seven Days in June creates romances that are stylish, witty, and emotionally devastating in the best way.
Williams writes Black love with a level of sophistication and passion that is unmatched. This book is expected to be a sweeping story about timing, fate, and the one that got away. It’s the kind of book you read with a glass of wine in hand, savoring every sentence. For Black History Month, it serves as a reminder of the joy and resilience found in Black love stories, celebrating them as worthy of epic narratives.
Pair this romantic read with The Ultimate Delicious Sausage Butternut Squash Tortellini Soup.
2. Heart's Gambit by J.D. Myall
Release Date: February 3, 2026 Genre: Fantasy / Historical
Runner-up at number 2 is Heart's Gambit by J.D. Myall. This debut fantasy novel has been generating significant buzz for its unique premise involving two prominent, time-traveling Black families.
The story follows the Baldwins and the Davenports, sworn enemies for centuries, who must fight in a deadly magical duel. Amidst the rivalry, a romance blossoms. This book combines the best of historical fiction with high fantasy, creating a narrative that spans generations. It addresses the legacy of slavery and freedom through a magical lens, making it a profound read for February. It’s an adventure that spans time, perfect for long winter nights.
Enjoy this magical journey with The Ultimate Pumpkin Pasta Bake with Burnt Butter and Sage.
1. Keeper of Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson
Release Date: Winter 2026 Genre: Historical Fiction
Taking the top spot at number 1 is Keeper of Lost Children by the phenomenal Sadeqa Johnson. Johnson has a track record of writing gripping, heart-wrenching historical fiction that centers Black women’s experiences.
This novel is anticipated to be a powerful exploration of family, loss, and resilience. Johnson’s ability to transport readers to the past is unparalleled. Her stories are not just about surviving history, but about the intricate, beautiful lives lived despite oppression. Keeper of Lost Children is poised to be the defining book of Winter 2026, offering a narrative that honors the ancestors and speaks to the enduring strength of the Black community. It is the ultimate read for Black History Month.
Celebrate this masterpiece with our Easy & Vibrant Jell-O Cookies.
Conclusion
Winter 2026 offers a literary landscape rich with diverse Black voices. From the chilling horror of Yah Yah Scholfield to the sweeping historical dramas of Sadeqa Johnson and ReShonda Tate, these books provide a multitude of ways to engage with Black History Month. They remind us that Black history is not just a monolith of struggle, but a kaleidoscope of love, magic, mystery, and joy.
We encourage you to pre-order these titles, request them at your local library, and share them with your book clubs. Supporting Black authors is a year-round commitment, but February offers a special opportunity to amplify these incredible stories. Happy reading!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When is Black History Month 2026? Black History Month is celebrated in February in the United States and Canada, and in October in the United Kingdom. This list focuses on releases around the US observance in February 2026.
2. What is the theme for Black History Month 2026? The theme for 2026, set by the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), is "A Century of Black History Commemorations."
3. Where can I buy these books? You can purchase these books at major retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores via Bookshop.org. We recommend supporting Black-owned bookstores whenever possible.
4. Are these books suitable for book clubs? Absolutely! Titles like Keeper of Lost Children and The Missed Connection offer rich themes for discussion regarding history, relationships, and society.
5. Can I pre-order these books now? Yes, most of these titles are available for pre-order. Pre-ordering helps authors significantly by signaling interest to publishers and boosting first-week sales numbers.
6. Are there any non-fiction recommendations? Yes, Burn Down Master's House by Clay Cane is a non-fiction title on our list that offers critical historical and cultural analysis.
7. Do any of these books feature LGBTQ+ characters? Many modern Black authors are inclusive in their storytelling. While specific plot details for all unreleased books aren't fully available, authors like J.D. Myall and Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé often include diverse representation.
8. What is "BookTok"? BookTok is a community on TikTok dedicated to books and literature. It has a massive influence on book trends and sales, helping many of these authors reach wider audiences.
9. Why are winter releases important? Winter releases often capture the "New Year, New Me" energy or the cozy, introspective mood of the season. They set the tone for the literary year ahead.
10. How can I support Black authors beyond buying books? You can support them by leaving reviews online, requesting their books at libraries, following them on social media, and recommending their work to friends and family.
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