3.21
The Soledad O'Roark series by John Ridley is a collection of detective novels that follow the adventures of a Los Angeles private investigator named Soledad O'Roark. The series is known for its gritty realism, sharp social commentary, and complex characters.
Colson Whitehead
The Underground Railroad
Like 'Soledad O'Roark', 'The Underground Railroad' is a thought-provoking exploration of race and identity in America. This novel, however, takes a more historical approach, following a young slave's daring escape from a Georgia plantation via a literal underground railroad.
Learn MorePaul Beatty
The Sellout
Fans of 'Soledad O'Roark' will appreciate the sharp satire and incisive social commentary in 'The Sellout'. This novel, which won the Man Booker Prize in 2016, tells the story of a young black man who attempts to reinstitute segregation in a fictional Los Angeles suburb.
Learn MoreToni Morrison
The Bluest Eye
Like John Ridley, Toni Morrison is a master of exploring the complexities of race and identity in America. 'The Bluest Eye' tells the story of a young black girl who longs for blue eyes, and the devastating consequences of her internalized racism.
Learn MoreJunot Díaz
The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao
Fans of 'Soledad O'Roark' will appreciate the richly drawn characters and intricate storytelling in 'The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao'. This novel tells the story of a Dominican-American nerd growing up in New Jersey, and his family's complicated history in the Dominican Republic.
Learn MoreJames Baldwin
Another Country
Like 'Soledad O'Roark', 'Another Country' is a powerful exploration of race, identity, and sexuality in America. This novel tells the story of a group of interconnected characters grappling with their desires and identities in post-World War II New York City.
Learn MoreAlice Walker
The Color Purple
Like 'Soledad O'Roark', 'The Color Purple' is a powerful exploration of race, gender, and identity in America. This novel tells the story of a young black woman in rural Georgia who finds her voice and her power through love and community.
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