BookBrief
James Baldwin photo

James Baldwin

James Arthur Baldwin was an American writer. He garnered acclaim for his work across several forms, including essays, novels, plays, and poems. His first novel, Go Tell It on the Mountain, was published in 1953; decades later, Time magazine included the novel on its list of the 100 best English-language novels released from 1923 to 2005. His first essay collection, Notes of a Native Son, was published in 1955.

6books in our library
Genres:Literary Fiction, Fiction, Historical Fiction +6 more
Literary Fiction
Fiction
Historical Fiction
Romance
Politics

Books by James Baldwin

6 books available

Going to Meet the Man cover

Going to Meet the Man

by James Baldwin

Fiction
Literary Fiction

4.4(4,803)

In these eight raw and unflinching stories, James Baldwin dissects the ingenious and often desperate measures his characters employ to survive the suffocating weight of racism, familial betrayal, and personal demons in a world determined to drown them.

Just Above My Head cover

Just Above My Head

by James Baldwin

Fiction
Fiction

4.4(1,872)

From Harlem gospel hymns to global fame, the novel follows Arthur and Hall Montana, showing how the Civil Rights era reshapes their brotherhood, loves, and identities across continents.

If Beale Street Could Talk cover

If Beale Street Could Talk

by James Baldwin

Fiction
Literary Fiction

4.3(32,281)

In 1970s Harlem, a pregnant Tish fights with love and determination to free her falsely imprisoned fiancé, Fonny, before their child is born.

Notes of a Native Son cover

Notes of a Native Son

by James Baldwin

Non-fiction
Politics

4.4(14,123)

In these sharp essays, James Baldwin examines racial conflict in mid-20th century America, from the streets of Harlem to the cafes of Europe, with clear thought and deep feeling that still connects with readers today.

The Fire Next Time cover

The Fire Next Time

by James Baldwin

Non-fiction
Politics

4.5(57,842)

Baldwin's raw and revolutionary "letters" confront America with the urgent issue of racial injustice, demanding accountability for its past and a path toward a shared, fair future.

Go Tell it on the Mountain cover

Go Tell it on the Mountain

by James Baldwin

Fiction
Literary Fiction

4.0(51,480)

In 1930s Harlem, young Johnny Grimes struggles with his abusive stepfather's fiery damnation and the weight of a destiny he wants to escape.