Aaron Foley’s Boys Come First is that book—the one that had me laughing, cringing, and shaking my head like, “Y’all really out here living like this?” It’s a messy, hilarious, and brutally honest look at friendship, love, and trying to keep it all together when life insists on falling apart. But more than that, it’s a refreshing and necessary take on Black queer joy, struggle, and the unique chaos of dating in your 30s. Set in a rapidly changing Detroit, the novel follows three friends—Dominick, Troy, and Remy—as they try (and mostly fail) to balance relationships, careers, and their own self-sabotage.

Journalist, author. NYC/Detroit

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The government’s move to abolish diversity, equity and inclusion policies is a naked attempt to appeal to prejudice – but it may well backfire

Roots and Legends: Folktales from African Culture is a vibrant, enchanting blend of African and African American folklore that will captivate readers of all ages. As someone who grew up with Anansi’s clever escapades and the mischievous tales of Brer Rabbit, I was delighted to discover even more of the rich oral traditions that this collection offers. Each story begins with a thoughtful introduction, offering valuable cultural and historical context that enhances the reading experience. These introductions provide a bridge to understanding the roots of these timeless tales, allowing readers to fully appreciate the depth and significance of the stories.

Some books resonate across generations, their themes refusing to be silenced. Ama Ata Aidoo’s Our Sister Killjoy, first published in 1977 and now reissued by Faber Editions in 2025, is one such novel. A searing critique of European imperialism, alienation, and the disillusionment of African intellectuals abroad, this book remains as urgent and thought-provoking as ever. For those who revel in literature that challenges, informs, and captivates, Aidoo’s work is an essential read. Ayesha Harruna Attah’s foreword to this edition beautifully sets the scene and tone for the book, introducing readers to Aidoo’s legacy while providing historical and cultural context.

Chicago. A city of rhythm, resilience, and undeniable influence in shaping Black culture. Yet, despite its significant contributions, it is often overshadowed by the artistic legacies of New York and Los Angeles. Energy Never Dies: Afro-Optimism and Creativity in Chicago by Ayana Contreras is a powerful rebuttal to this neglect—an evocative and insightful celebration of the city’s creative and cultural legacy.

I went into Banana Republic by Ben Brisbois expecting an interesting take on science and the environment, but I wasn’t prepared for just how much I’d learn. This book introduced me to the history of South America in a way I’d never explored before. I had no idea how damaging banana cultivation was—not just to the environment, but to the farmers who are trapped in cycles of exploitation.

The prospect of a ban appears to have seized front-page headlines as the next chapter in the ongoing debate on TikTok's fate in the US. For millions of creators, small business owners, and the average user, however, TikTok is much more than a social media application: it's a lifeline, a community, and an outlet for unparalleled creativity. One article that could be important to read is by Social Media Today: TikTok Appeals to Supreme Court Against Sell-Off Ban.

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If, like me, you’re a bit of a word nerd and love digging into the quirky corners of language, Gareth Carrol’s Jumping Sharks and Dropping Mics is an absolute treat. This book takes a deep dive into the origins of modern idioms, unpacking their meanings and tracing how they’ve made their way into our everyday conversations. It’s an engaging and insightful read, perfect for anyone curious about the stories behind the phrases we so often take for granted.

As a fan of both music and literature, Long Players by Tom Gatti immediately piqued my interest. The premise is simple yet captivating: a collection of essays where writers share the one album that has been a touchstone in their lives. For someone like me, who loves exploring the deep connections between art forms, this book promised to be an immersive experience.

“Where is your husband?” is a question that rings familiar to many unmarried women across the African diaspora, especially after university. This common refrain is at the heart of Yinka, Where is Your Huzband? by Lizzie Damilola Blackburn, and is what initially drew me to this book - despite me being somewhat older than Yinka and still unmarried. From the very first page, I felt immersed in Yinka’s world.

Happy New Year and all that jazz. I'm pleased to report that I've completed my first book of 2025. It had been on my to be read pile on my Kindle for nearly 4 years to met embarrassment - and yes you've guessed it, this is my reading equivalent of going back to the gym - NOT ONLY WILL I READ MORE BUT I WILL ALSO DOCUMENT THIS READING.

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Get Rich or Lie Trying: Ambition and Deceit in the New Influencer Economy by Symeon Brown is a fascinating and eye-opening look at the world of social media influencers. Brown, a journalist and author, spent two years researching the industry, interviewing influencers, marketers, and other experts. The result is a book that is both entertaining and disturbing, as it reveals the dark side of the influencer economy.