Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman

An iconic book by an iconic author.

This is a powerful coming-of-age story that examines racism, prejudice, and privilege in an alternate society. A Thread team favourite, this book forces readers to confront head-on the racial issues still present today.

My Name is Why by Lemn Sissay

A must-read. Sissay’s heart-wrenching memoir chronicles the systemic racism in social care that could have killed him, but instead, he chose to thrive and share his story of hope and triumph.

Whites by Otegha Uwagba

A really powerful, incisive and brutally honest book about the reality of dealing with whiteness and the mental labour it requires.

Hood Feminism by Mikki Kendall

A critical examination of mainstream feminism which she argues largely ignores women of colour.

The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré

A beautiful work of fiction set in Nigeria that follows a Adunni, the 14-year-old protagonist who lives in small town a few hours from Lagos. The book highlights the blight of modern-day domestic slavery.

Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay

A collection of funny and insightful essays across a wide-range of issues including pop culture, race, gender and politics.