Books

38 Books About Race In Britain To Add To Your Anti-Racist Reading List

Books to help readers learn about the history of racism & anti-racist activism in the UK, as well as what it looks like today & how to become a better ally.

by Alice Broster
Updated: 
Originally Published: 
Books About Race In Britain To Add To Your Anti-Racist Reading List
Bonnier Books Ltd / Harper Perennial
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May 26, 2021, marked the first anniversary of George Floyd’s death at the hands of Minneapolis police. In the days, weeks, and months following, demonstrations took place in the U.S., the UK, and across the world calling for an end to police violence, united under the message that Black Lives Matter. The world changed. Alongside campaigning, allies learnt that one of the first steps they needed to take was educating themselves on the issues at hand. Reading about racism here in the UK will not be a comfortable experience, but with so many informative books about the topic, there are no excuses not to be doing it.

This list was first put together in June 2020. Since then, conversations about race and racism in the UK have evolved, with activists looking to the future and continuing to push for a fairer society. I hope the updated list below reflects this. It includes books that will help readers learn about the history of racism and anti-racist activism in the UK, as well as what racism looks like today and how you can actively become a better ally.

These books predominantly focus on Black British experiences and histories, but there are works featured for those looking to read more widely about the issue of UK racism, xenophobia, and white supremacy. I have also included novels and non-fiction books written by people of colour that deserve your attention.

This list is by no means exhaustive or definitive, it is simply a starting point for those looking to educate themselves.

The History Of Racism & Anti-Racist Activism In The UK

'Why I’m No Longer Talking To White People About Race' by Reni Eddo-Lodge
Foyles
Why I’m No Longer Talking To White People About Race, written by British journalist Reni Eddo-Lodge, analyses the discussions that are had around racism and race, pointing out that white people’s contributions can often do more harm than good. Eddo-Lodge last year posted on Twitter to ask anyone considering buying a copy of the book in the wake of the George Floyd killing to match what they paid with a donation to the Minnesota Freedom Fund if they are able to. She also suggested borrowing a copy from a friend or local library and donating what you would have spent.

Racism As It Looks In The UK Today

Books From UK Writers On How To Be Actively Anti-Racist

Novels To Read

Non-Fiction To Read

Poetry To Read

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