Let’s Talk Bookish is a weekly meme originally created and hosted by Rukky @ Eternity Books starting in August 2019, and was then cohosted by Dani @ Literary Lion from May 2020 to March 2022. Since April 2022, the meme moved to another host, Aria @ Book Nook Bits.
Let’s Talk Bookish is a meme where participants discuss specific topics, share their opinions, and share their love by visiting each other’s posts.

Hello! so, here I am, with a new topic!

Diversity in reading can open doors to new perspectives. Are you conscious of the voices in your book collection? Let’s explore why prioritizing diversity in reading is essential and how it can enrich your literary journey.

Embracing Diversity in Literature: Why You Should Seek Out Diverse Books

In a world where representation matters more than ever, diverse books have become an essential part of literature. But do you actively seek out diverse books? What kind of representation do you look for? Are diverse books often in the spotlight, or does it take more effort to find them? Let’s explore these questions and why you should make an effort to include diverse books in your reading list.

Do you actively seek out diverse books? Do you actively seek out diverse books? What kind of representation do you look for?

Diverse books offer readers the opportunity to explore different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. By reading books written by authors from diverse backgrounds, you can gain a deeper understanding of the world around you and develop empathy for those whose experiences may differ from your own. Additionally, diverse books can help challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity and understanding.

When seeking out diverse books, consider looking for representation across various dimensions of diversity, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, and socioeconomic status. It’s important to read books that feature characters and stories that reflect the diversity of the world we live in. Look for books that are #OwnVoices, meaning they are written by authors who share the same marginalized identity as the characters they portray.

Do you feel that diverse books are often spotlighted, or that it takes more of an effort to find diverse books? What recommendations do you have?

Diverse books play a crucial role in promoting empathy, understanding, and inclusivity. When we read books that feature characters from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, we are able to broaden our perspectives and develop a deeper appreciation for the richness of human diversity. Diverse books also provide representation for individuals who may not often see themselves reflected in mainstream literature, helping to foster a sense of belonging and empowerment.

Despite the growing demand for diverse books, they are still not always given the same level of attention and promotion as mainstream titles. This can make it difficult for readers to discover diverse voices and stories, as they may not be as readily available in bookstores or highlighted in bestseller lists. Additionally, the publishing industry itself has historically been dominated by a narrow range of voices, making it harder for diverse authors to break through and reach a wider audience.

If you’re looking to broaden your reading horizons, here are 10 must-read diverse books that are sure to captivate and inspire you:

1. “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas

This powerful novel follows the story of Starr Carter, a young black girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood friend by a police officer. Through Starr’s eyes, readers are given a poignant and thought-provoking look at race, identity, and activism.

2. “Americanah” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel explores themes of race, immigration, and identity through the eyes of Ifemelu, a young Nigerian woman who moves to America for university. With wit and insight, Adichie tackles issues of race and belonging in a way that is both illuminating and engaging.

3. “The Joy Luck Club” by Amy Tan

Amy Tan’s classic novel weaves together the stories of four Chinese immigrant families living in San Francisco. Through a series of interconnected vignettes, Tan explores the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, cultural identity, and the immigrant experience.

4. “Homegoing” by Yaa Gyasi

Yaa Gyasi’s debut novel spans generations and continents, tracing the descendants of two half-sisters from 18th-century Ghana to present-day America. Through vivid storytelling, Gyasi explores the legacy of slavery and its impact on the African diaspora.

5. “Pachinko” by Min Jin Lee

Set in Korea and Japan, “Pachinko” follows the lives of four generations of a Korean immigrant family as they navigate love, loss, and discrimination. Min Jin Lee’s epic saga offers a sweeping portrait of a family bound by history.