One in all W journal’s Most Anticipated Books of Fall 2023
“We reserve this area for our humanity in all of its fond, ironic, elated, grief-stricken, confused glory . . . When you end up alone and downtrodden, when the information is an excessive amount of, return to those pages. This one is for you.” ―from the introduction by Cole Brown and Natalie Johnson
“There’s one thing significantly particular about Black Love. When you think about the historical past of our folks, the strife and adversity we have overcome, love appears an nearly illogically bold act of resistance.” ―from the foreword by John Legend
From celebrated Black writers, creators, and thinkers―and with a foreword by John Legend―comes a set of letters and authentic illustrations with regards to Black love, a robust and heartfelt celebration of Blackness in all its many types.
On this beautiful anthology of letters and illustrations, Cole Brown and Natalie Johnson convey collectively a constellation of influential Black figures to jot down to the folks, locations, and moments that imply probably the most to them. With a foreword from John Legend and contributions from Brontez Purnell, Morgan Jerkins, Reverend Al Sharpton, and Dr. Imani Perry, amongst many others, Black Love Letters is an ode to an exceptional neighborhood: a testomony to the truth that the place there was ache and struggling, there has additionally all the time been immeasurable, irrepressible pleasure and love.
With letters from: Akili King • Reverend Al Sharpton • Alexandra Elle • Allisa Charles-Findley • Barbara Edelin • Belinda Walker • Ben Crump • Invoice Whitaker • Bilquisu Abdullah • Brianna Holt • Brontez Purnell • Cole Brown • Danez Smith • Dick Parsons • Deborah Willis • Doug Jones • Douglas Kearney • Imani Perry • Jamila Woods • Jan Menafee • Jayne Allen • Jeh Charles Johnson • Jenna Wortham • Jonathan Capehart • John Legend • Joel Castón • Pleasure-Ann Reid • Justus Cornelius Pugh • Kwame Dawes • Lynae Vanee Bogues • Mahogany Browne • Malachi Elijah • Michael Eric Dyson • Morgan Jerkins • Nadia Owusu • Natalie Johnson • Raka Reynolds • Rhianna Jones • Chef Rōze Traore • Sojourner Brown • Tarana Burke • Tembe Denton-Hurst • Topaz Jones • Tracey Michae’l Lewis-Giggetts • VJ Jenkins
Will –
An incredible collection that forces you to keep reading. Highly recommend for all.
Emely R. –
This anthology, thoughtfully curated by Cole Brown and Natalie Johnson, brings together celebrated Black writers, creators, and thinkers, each contributing heartfelt letters and original illustrations that center on the subject of Black love. From John Legend’s eloquent foreword to the poignant contributions of luminaries like Brontez Purnell, Morgan Jerkins, Reverend Al Sharpton, and Dr. Imani Perry, “Black Love Letters” is a compelling mosaic of voices that celebrates the beauty, strength, and deep humanity of Black people.In a world marred by war, suffering, and social injustice, loving and allowing oneself to be loved is a political act. The act of loving another Black person is a revolutionary one, as it defies the historical adversity and systemic oppression that Black folx and Black communities have endured. “Black Love Letters” beautifully captures this truth and serves as a testament to the expansive capacity of Black people to love, heal, and thrive despite the trauma and suffering we have faced throughout history.The collection echoes the sentiments of Lynae Vanee, who eloquently encapsulates the essence of Black love as a force that transcends time and space. Vance writes that Black Love is found in the praying hands of grandmothers, the shared moments of joy on hot summer days, the support of siblings, and the resilience of a community that has had to navigate a world that often seeks to diminish their worth. This anthology reveals that Black love is not just about romantic relationships; it is a love that extends to self and to the collective.In times of turmoil, books like “Black Love Letters” are indispensable. They remind us that even in the face of adversity, love and connection can be our guiding lights. Through its letters and illustrations, this anthology offers a soothing balm for those seeking solace, a source of inspiration for those yearning for a sense of belonging, and a call to action for those who wish to stand in solidarity with communities enduring hardship.
Priscila (Yemi) Brown –
Such an insightful read with beautiful illustrations that would make a great gift for anyone on your list.