Black women are leaders of literature. Their legacies are rooted in writing that eloquently captures the intersections of gender, race, class and power.  Through the voices of queens from the past and present, #BlackGirlMagic is the energy in these reading classes.  Read books from Zora Neale Hurston and Toni Morrison to Michelle Obama and Yaa Gyasi.

#BlackGirlMagic is the energy in these reading classes with books from queens past and present.

#BlackGirlMagic

Black history

Books & film

Reading

Students will read and engage in a book club discussion of Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston.

Their Eyes Were Watching God

Becoming observes the life of the revered and beloved Michelle Obama. Obama’s storytelling--like the works of art in this unit--are told in her own words and on her own terms. Students will follow the story of a young, fierce girl from the South Side of Chicago to her years as a lawyer and executive, and her years as the first Black Lady of the United States. 

As a culmination of #BlackGirlMagic, students will discuss their own stories, identities, and aspirations in manifesting their own Black Excellence.

Becoming

Love that #BlackGirlMagic! Read and engage in a deep book club discussion of Beloved by Toni Morrison.
*Participants are responsible for obtaining their own copy of the book.

Beloved

In this Unit, students examine the art of the incomparable Maya Anglou and her first autobiography. Eloquently expressed, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings follows Angelou’s compelling journey of self-hatred to one of unequivocal love of self. Students will analyze the impact of environments and relationships on Angelou’s life by reading, writing, speaking, and listening. In addition, students will explore Angelou’s poetic writing style. While internalizing Angelou’s message, students will confront and revere their own Black Excellence through poetry.