BAME Books Matter

The acronym BAME stands for, Black, Asian, and minority ethnic and is used to refer to members of non-white communities in the UK.

The recognition of BAME authors and their wonderful works are now more important than ever before. You may have heard of the #BlackLivesMatter movement and the current awareness it is bringing on people from all around the world, which is why we have picked our most favourite novels written by BAME authors for you to read at home. 

BAME books offer an intriguing look into the prejudice, stereotypes and diversity that comes with being from a minority background, with a unique perspective that not many books can offer. We hope you enjoy reading these novels from the comfort of your own home and remember to stay safe and be happy.

The Hate U Give 
By Angie Thomas 

A fantastically told exploration of race in America The Hate U Give has already become a modern classic. A must read for anyone who wants to understand these issues more deeply.

Yes No Maybe So 
By Becky Albertalli and Aisha Saeed 

This novel addresses Islamophobia and Anti- Semitism through two teenagers' perspectives - Jamie and Maya. They are brought together by their passion for battling the ongoing racism in America. To do this they realise they must speak out and they begin to protest, campaign and canvass together. 
Yes No Maybe So twists a deep and profound truth into a hopeful love story. It shows how important it is to speak up, especially in times like these.

Tyler Johnson Was Here 
By Jay Coles 

This book is the story of Marvin. His twin brother is tragically shot and killed by a police officer after a shooting at a party they both attend. Tyler Johnson was Here adds to the conversation on race and police brutality while also challenging the stereotypes about black people in modern society. 

For those who enjoyed The Hate U Give and Dear Martin, this book will change your thoughts on the Black Lives Matter movement and is a captivating must-read novel.

On The Come Up
By Angie Thomas

 
On the Come Up is set in the same fictional neighbourhood as The Hate U Give and tells the story of a 16-year-old aspiring rapper Bri. This book is feistier than THUG and displays the everyday racism young black people go through. 

I recommend to people who enjoyed The Hate You Give and people who feel very strongly about racism or who just want to understand it better.

Love in Colour 
By Bolu Babalola

 
Inspired by tales from history and mythology Love In Colour is a series of short stories that take a step forward in decolonising tropes of love by reinventing them within the experiences of other communities and cultures. Stories around racism, sexism and homophobia. 

For people who want to combat these injustices and enjoy a nice love story on the side.

I Am Thunder 
By Muhammad Khan 

Told from the point of view of a young girl, Muzna Saleem, this story addresses the stereotypes against Asian people while educating the reader about ISIS. How they recruit both men and women, by gradually drawing them in by degrees. 

Recommended to people who are willing to learn more about this issue and who enjoy a love story on the side. A book that teaches you to stand up for what you believe in.

Long Way Down 
By Jason Reynolds 

Jason Reynolds's fiercely stunning novel that takes place in sixty potent seconds - the time it takes a kid to decide whether or not he's going to follow 'the rules' and murder the guy who killed his brother. 

Written in blank verse this is a story that will crawl into your soul and hold you in a moment. Hard-hitting and tackling issues around gang violence and poverty. It's an easy read that delves deep into difficult themes. 

Noughts and Crosses
By Malorie Blackman 

Sephy and Callum grew up together but they can only ever be friends. They live in a world full of racism, hatred and violence. One where prejudice and distrust is the norm. Despite all this, Callum and Sephy can’t help falling in love with disastrous consequences. 

First Published in 2001, this book is just as relevant today as it was nearly two decades is ago.

Children of Blood and Bone
By Tomi Adeyemi 

In a world where magic is banished those who were slaughtered and their children discriminated against. Zélie is one such child. She saw her mother brutally murdered and could easily share that same fate. Every day she must hide who she is to survive.

But her life is turned upside down when she rescues a noble girl Amari who has an incredibly important object: the key to return magic to the land of Orïsha. 
Fans of the throne of glass series will enjoy this beautifully written and dramatic book.

By Cara, Clemence, Hafsa and Isabel