If you’re looking for something quick to read, we’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled a list of ten anticipated quick reads coming out in 2021. From profound poetry to short stories, there’s something for everyone. 

If I Tell You the Truth by Jasmin Kaur (Jan 19, 2021)

This beautifully written poetry takes you through the gripping tale of a mother and daughter trying to overcome trauma, face fears, and create a fresh start. But when Kiran overstays her visa and the past gets brought out into the light, a whole new obstacle course is presented. This heart-wrenching story exquisitely illustrates the power of community, courage, and most importantly, love. 

Mama Phife Represents: A Memoir (BreakBeat Poets) by Cheryl Boyce-Taylor (Jan 19, 2021)

Penned by a mother who unexpectedly lost her son to Type 1 diabetes, this collection of thoughts will make you feel all the things. Cheryl is beyond brave as she expresses her heartbreak over losing her son when he was at the pinnacle of his music career. It reads like a letter from a mom to child, and it’s almost as if you can experience a fraction of her pain through the pages.

All Along You Were Blooming: Thoughts for Boundless Living by Morgan Harper Nichols (Jan 21, 2021)

This charming read gives you that feeling of running barefoot through the grass on a warm summer day. The author gives you permission to show yourself some grace and to be fully present in current the moment. This collection of thoughts is a powerful pick-me-up for people of all ages and genres, reminding us that every season serves its purpose.

shine your icy crown (you are your own fairy tale) by Amanda Lovelace (Jan 26, 2021)

This feminist poetry series is girl power at its finest. Amanda takes us on an adventure with her inspiring prose, encouraging fearless females everywhere that they are just fine on their own – that they don’t need a king to be a queen! Her encouraging words of wisdom are for women everywhere and will leave the reader with feel-good vibes.

I am The Rage by Martina McGowan (Feb 2, 2021)

To say that this collection of work is powerful would be putting it mildly. Retired MD, Martina McGowan, gives her unapologetic insight into what it’s like to be a Black American woman in the midst of heightened racial injustice in the U.S. today.  Her thought-provoking work will challenge the reader to see things in a different way, with the hopes of affecting change in today’s society. Written following the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, I am The Rage is real, raw, and emotional.

Written After a Massacre in the Year 2018 by Daniel Borzutzky (Mar 2, 2021)

In this mournful but moving collection of poems chronicling recent times of violence and injustice, Borzutzky brilliantly brings us to both tears and rage. He poignantly expresses disappointment with our society and offers sympathy for those suffering.  Lastly, he leaves us with the hope that we can do better and transcend inequality through peace.

Black Girl, Call Home by Jasmine Mans (Mar 9, 2021)

Her story reads like a self-love love letter and speaks right to the heart. With every poem, the reader gains insight to what it’s like to live as a queer Black woman and the roadblocks encountered along the way. This coming-of-age story chronicles joy and pain, but most importantly sheds a light on the ability to find belonging, peace, and healing while finding your way home.  

Want more reads for 2021? Check out some of our other lists!