From thrilling mysteries to insightful nonfiction, these highly anticipated releases are the perfect companions for summer travel, inviting you to embark on unforgettable journeys long before takeoff.
Pop one (or a few) in your carryon and make your way to some sun.
Juneteenth Is (April 2024)
Author: Natasha Triplet 
Genre: Family, History
The Story: Natasha Triplet’s book delves into the historical significance of Juneteenth, tracing its roots from Galveston in 1865 to its contemporary celebrations across the country.
“Juneteenth Is” is expected to be an exploration of this important moment in American history that makes it positive and accessible for families and younger audiences.
The Dead Don’t Need Reminding (May 2024)
Author: Julian Randall 
Genre: Memoir (Young Adult), Social Commentary
The Story: Though categorized as Young Adult, Julian Randall’s memoir “The Dead Don’t Need Reminding” is generating considerable buzz for its exploration of challenging subjects.
It’s a poignant look at a young Black man grappling with depression and his family history. Randall’s exploration of his grandfather’s choice to pass as white is particularly compelling, and is sure to spark conversations about race, identity, and the legacy of slavery in America.
Ash Dark As Night (April 2024)
Author: Gary Phillips 
Genre: Mystery, Historical Fiction
The Story: “Ash Dark As Night” is the highly anticipated sequel to Gary Phillips’ acclaimed debut novel “One-Shot Harry.” The book returns us to 1965 Los Angeles, a city simmering with racial tension.
Photojournalist Harry Ingrams captures a critical moment of police brutality during the Watts riots. This act makes Harry a hero in the Black community but a target for the LAPD. Expect a suspenseful story that parallels modern day events through its history-based narrative.
This hotel has the perfect poolside for reading on your next getaway.
Missing White Woman (May 2024)
Author: Kellye Garrett 
Genre: Thriller, Social Commentary
The Story: “Missing White Woman” is a thought-provoking thriller that explores race and media bias. The plot revolves around the disappearance of a young white woman and a case that receives national attention.
Meanwhile, a Black teenager who vanished around the same time goes unnoticed. This summer read tackles issues of media presentation and the value placed on missing persons based on race.
The Swans of Harlem: Five Black Ballerinas, Fifty Years of Sisterhood, and Their Reclamation of a Groundbreaking History (April 2024)
Author: Karen Valby 
Genre: Biography, History
The Story: “The Swans of Harlem” is a powerful – and long overdue – account of the pioneering Black ballerinas who founded the Dance Theatre of Harlem. The book chronicles the stories of five extraordinary women: Marcia Sells, Sheila Rohan, Gayle McKinney-Griffith, Karlya Shelton-Benjamin, and Lydia Abarca-Mitchell.
Valby delves into their individual journeys, the challenges they faced breaking racial barriers in the ballet world, and the deep sisterhood that sustained them. “The Swans of Harlem” goes beyond individual biographies, offering a rich historical perspective on the Dance Theatre of Harlem’s legacy and its enduring impact on the arts.
These upcoming book releases will keep you & your family engaged on your way to an exciting destination. Whether you plan to lounge on a sun-drenched beach, explore a bustling city, or embark on a cross-country road trip, you’ll find these page turners worth the extra weight in your luggage.
Pack your bags, grab a new title, and prepare to embark on a literary journey like no other.
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