Weekend Reads: 5 Joyful, Witty, and Wonderfully Black Books to Brighten Your Weekend
2 min read
Short reads for romance lovers, mystery chasers, and anyone who needs a little Black joy right now
Some weekends are made for deep reads—but others? They’re made for cozy escapes, sweet chaos, and characters who leave you smiling. Whether you’re curled up on the couch, riding solo at a coffee shop, or ducking out of group chats to read in peace, these five books are perfect for a weekend refresh.
They’re short. They’re soulful. And they’re proudly Black.
1. Once Ghosted, Twice Shy by Alyssa Cole
Genre: Queer Romance
Length: 128 pages
This sapphic novella is a second-chance love story set during a spontaneous New York City adventure. A charming, fast-paced romance between Likotsi, a royal advisor, and Fabiola, the woman who once broke her heart.
Why read it this weekend?
Because it’s romantic, funny, tender—and beautifully Black and queer.
2. Black Girls Must Die Exhausted by Jayne Allen
Genre: Contemporary Fiction / Rom-Com Vibes
Length: 290 pages
Tabitha is a 33-year-old reporter navigating life, love, and fertility while managing expectations and microaggressions in modern-day L.A. It’s heartfelt, hilarious, and relatable.
Why read it this weekend?
Because it feels like brunch with your girlfriends—raw, real, and full of life.
3. Hollywood Homicide by Kellye Garrett
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Length: 304 pages (a touch over—but fast reading)
Dayna Anderson, a semi-retired actress turned accidental detective, investigates a hit-and-run in L.A. Glam meets grit in this award-winning, laugh-out-loud mystery.
Why read it this weekend?
Because it’s Black, clever, and as bingeable as your favorite TV crime drama.
4. Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
Genre: Contemporary YA / Queer Romance / Coming-of-Age
Length: 368 pages (a little longer—but quick read)
Felix, a Black, queer, and trans teen, gets pulled into a love triangle while plotting a revenge prank—and in the process, finds love, affirmation, and clarity about who he is.
It’s full of heart, flirtation, queer joy, chosen family, and self-discovery—with the emotional depth of Callender’s work but wrapped in warmth and love.
Why read it this weekend?
Because it’s joyful, funny, and full of the kind of queer Black affirmation that stays with you—in all the best ways.
5. Instructions for Dancing by Nicola Yoon
Genre: YA Romance with Magical Realism
Length: 304 pages
Evie can suddenly see how relationships end. But when she joins a dance studio and meets the charismatic X, she has to decide if falling in love is still worth it. This is for dreamers, romantics, and anyone who believes in the ache and beauty of love.
Why read it this weekend?
Because it’s sweet, hopeful, and magical in the best way.
Whether you need a soft landing, a deep laugh, or just a reminder that joy is still yours to claim—these books are for you.
Because sometimes the most revolutionary thing a Black story can offer is delight.
Take what you need. Leave the rest. And let joy lead the way this weekend.
