The Noir Narrative

  I’ll admit it—I was influenced. When filmmaking powerhouse Ryan Coogler dropped his latest movie, Sinners , the buzz was immediate. Alongside a chorus of praise came a wave of book recommendations inspired by the film's release. My timeline quickly filled with posts from book lovers and content creators suggesting what to read if you enjoyed Sinners —a mix of classics and fresh, contemporary picks. One recommendation stood out above the rest: Ring Shout by author and historian P. Djèlí Clark. The moment I read the synopsis, I practically dislocated my shoulder rushing to download it. Two days and a binge-read later, I can confidently say: I loved every page. This book starts with a bang—literally. We meet our trio staked out atop a building, watching a 1922 KKK rally in Macon, Georgia, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. What follows is a high-stakes showdown between three gun-slinging, magic sword-wielding heroines and a monstrous entity known as a Ku Klux—creatures that ...

As spring’s rain clouds begin to clear and the sun makes its long-awaited return, there’s nothing I enjoy more than soaking up the warmth with a good book in hand. With its mix of lively late nights and slow, easy mornings, summer carries a rhythm that feels made for poetry. There’s something about the season—the stillness, the spontaneity, the space to breathe—that makes poetry hit just right. Here’s a list of my favorite poetry collections that capture everything I love about summer: Each of these books offers something a little different, so whether you're looking to sink into your feelings, escape into language, or simply savor a few quiet moments between plans, these poems are made for summer reading. Let them find you where you are, whether it's beachside, bedside, or somewhere in between. 1. Black Girl, Call Home by Jasmine Mans   There’s something deeply nostalgic about the way Jasmine Mans pours her heart onto the page in this collection. It’s no surprise Black Girl,...