In the UK, from 2007 to 2017, an alarming statistic emerged: fewer than 2% of all children’s books were created by UK authors of colour. This concerning reality was revealed in a report commissioned by BookTrust, a renowned reading charity, and penned by Dr. Melanie Ramdarshan Bold. The dearth of diversity in the publishing industry is a long-standing concern, with the lack of BAME protagonists in MG & YA literature being a particular issue I’ve previously addressed.
It’s vital that students see themselves reflected in the books they read, with their cultures, religions, neighbourhoods, and heritage all featured prominently. This stark absence of representation underscores a significant problem within the industry. Fortunately, BookTrust has taken steps to address this disparity through #BookTrustRepresents, a three-year initiative aimed at promoting UK authors of colour for young and teenage readers.
As a School Librarian, my role is to not only acquire available books but also promote these authors through author visits, Skype sessions, displays, and other initiatives designed to raise awareness about this issue. In the meantime, I’d like to highlight 30 UK authors of colour who write for MG & YA audiences, all of whom are definitely worth reading.
High Rise Mystery by Sharna Jackson
Step into the scorching London summer with detectives Nik and Norva as they embark on a thrilling investigation to uncover the truth behind a series of murders taking place in their high-rise building. As the stakes rise, this dynamic duo must work together to unravel the tangled threads of clues and piecing together the puzzle before it’s too late. Perfect for readers aged 11 and above, get ready to be transported into a world of suspense, intrigue, and mystery.
The Novice (Summoner Series #1) by Taran Matharu
As Fletcher’s life took a dramatic turn with the discovery of his magical abilities, he embarked on a journey to the prestigious Magical Academy to refine his skills. But little did he know that the pursuit of knowledge came with its own set of perils, where training was as treacherous as actual combat. This high-stakes fantasy adventure is sure to captivate readers.
You’re Not Proper by Tariq Mehmood
Karen’s journey to convert to Islam is met with skepticism by her Muslim school friend, who presents her with a series of challenging questions. This unexpected scrutiny serves as a catalyst for introspection and self-doubt, not only among her peers but also within the confines of her own home. As Karen navigates this complex web of culture, identity, and faith, she begins to confront the harsh realities of Islamophobia that threaten to upend her newfound beliefs.
Indigo Donut by Patrice Lawrence
Bailey & Indigo’s relationship is a cornerstone of the story. Despite their vastly different upbringings – Bailey comes from a loving family with a guitar-wielding dad and afro-picking good times, while Indigo carries a heavy load from a troubled past – they’ve found common ground. However, when a homeless man’s attention turns to Bailey, the dynamics of their bond begin to shift. This award-winning narrative explores themes of belonging and identity.
A Change is Gonna Come by Mary Bello et al.
The forthcoming anthology is a thought-provoking collection of short stories penned by talented young adult writers from diverse backgrounds. The tales explore complex issues such as terrorism, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and LGBTQ themes, delving deep into the human experience. Readers can expect to be captivated, moved, and enlightened by this unforgettable literary journey.
Proud by Juno Dawson et al
This anthology brings together a diverse range of stories penned by LGBTQ+ writers from the UK, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of talents that will leave readers laughing and crying in equal measure. Each narrative is carefully crafted to capture the reader’s attention, with humor and emotional depth woven throughout.
A Pocketful of Stars by Aisha Busby
Safiya’s relationship with her mother was strained, to say the least. While Safiya spent hours exploring virtual worlds through gaming, her mother couldn’t fathom why anyone would choose fantasy over reality. The tension between them was palpable, but little did they know, their lives were about to take an unexpected turn. When Safiya’s mother fell into a coma, she found herself transported to a world that eerily mirrored the games she loved.
A realm where hope, magic, and intrigue awaited her, full of possibilities and surprises.
A Jigsaw of Fire and Stars by Yaba Badoe
Sante’s existence is a perpetual mystery, with fragmented memories of shipwrecks, lilting melodies, and soaring eagles. Her nomadic lifestyle leaves few roots to speak of, yet her subconscious whispers hints of a forgotten past. When individuals from her vivid dreams materialize in the waking world, seeking a long-lost treasure tied to her parents’ fates, Sante’s life teeters on the brink of chaos. The danger that follows is as unpredictable as the currents that shape the seas she’s drawn to.
Girls of Paper and Fire by Natasha Ngan
In a world where societal hierarchies are rigidly defined, Lei’s fate seems sealed from the moment she’s forcibly taken from her Paper caste community and forced into servitude under the demon king. The weight of her circumstances crushes her spirit, leaving her feeling hopeless about her future. Yet, amidst the bleakness, she finds solace in the bonds forged with fellow slaves who share her plight.
United by their shared suffering, they begin to secretly orchestrate a rebellion that promises to shake the very foundations of their oppressive regime.
Run, Riot by Nikesh Shukla
As two teenagers, still reeling from the shock of witnessing a brutal police beating of an unarmed young resident from their own neighborhood, they inadvertently capture the entire ordeal on camera. This bold move sets them running from the authorities, who seem more interested in silencing them than seeking justice. As they flee, they stumble upon a tangled web of deceit and corruption that connects powerful corporate interests with crooked cops.
The thrilling ride is reminiscent of great YA adventures.
Chasing the Stars by Malorie Blackman
In a world ravaged by the devastating effects of a mysterious virus, two identical twin siblings embark on a poignant journey back to their home planet of Earth. The story unfolds as a thrilling adventure infused with heartfelt moments, exploring the depths of human connection and resilience in the face of catastrophic loss.
The Boy At the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf
In a heartwarming tale of resilience and compassion, a young Syrian refugee named Ahmet finds himself alone in the UK, separated from his loved ones. When a group of school friends takes it upon themselves to reunite him with his family, they embark on an unpredictable journey that tests their limits. As they navigate the complexities of international relocation, they discover that even the most well-intentioned plans can be fraught with challenges.
This poignant novel serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and kindness in bringing people together.
All the Things We Never Said by Yasmin Rahman
Terror Kid by Benjamin Zephaniah
Rico’s exceptional knack for sniffing out trouble has made him a formidable force in the world of cyber hacktivism. With a burning passion to expose injustices, both locally and globally, he’s always on the lookout for new ways to make a difference. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Speech, an enigmatic individual who shares his zeal for digital activism.
As Rico’s skills continue to evolve under Speech’s guidance, he can’t help but wonder what lies beneath Speech’s cryptic persona and motives.
Oh My Gods By Alexandra Sheppard
Helen Thomas’s life is a unique blend of mortal and divine, her father Zeus being an immortal Greek god. As the patriarch of their family, Zeus has instilled in them a crucial rule: keep their true nature under wraps. This means no telepathic manipulation, no dramatic lightning displays, and definitely no actions that might draw unwanted attention to themselves from mortals or other gods. However, things don’t quite go according to plan.
Liccle Bit by Alex Wheatle
Lemar’s life was marked by constant reminders of his physical stature – he was the second shortest kid in his year, and his peers never hesitated to rub it in. His father had abandoned him years ago, leaving a trail of emotional scars that only seemed to deepen with each passing day. His sister, overwhelmed by her own struggles as a single mother, was barely holding on, while their mother was at her breaking point, exhausted from trying to keep the family afloat.
Just when it seemed like things couldn’t get any worse, a notorious gang leader took an interest in Lemar, sending his life into a tailspin of chaos and uncertainty.
Ade’s Amazing Ade-Venture by Ade Adepitan
Ade’s journey from Nigeria to the UK was marked by challenges, particularly the relentless bullying he faced due to his cultural differences. Despite the difficulties, Ade refused to let his new surroundings define him. With the support of a few kindred spirits, he discovered the courage to stand up for himself and proudly showcase his unique identity. This heartwarming tale is perfect for readers aged 9 and above, offering a powerful reminder that being different is what makes us special.
A Burnt Child by Shereen Pandit
Having escaped the tumultuous world of political activism in South Africa, Yazz had thought she’d left her troubles behind when she relocated to the UK. However, when an old acquaintance with a dubious past reenters her life and requests her assistance in unraveling the enigma surrounding a recent demise, she’s drawn back into the very circumstances she’d hoped to leave behind.
The Jungle by Pooja Puri
In search of a better life, Mico leaves his family behind, but his journey takes an unexpected turn as he finds himself amidst the notorious refugee camp in Calais, known for its treacherous conditions. As he navigates this desolate landscape, Mico becomes embroiled with the enigmatic Ghost Men, a mysterious group of magic users capable of traversing borders undetected.
With his situation growing increasingly desperate, Mico must form unlikely alliances in order to escape the clutches of danger and find solace in an uncertain future.
Fly Me Home by Polly Ho-Yen
As Leelu adjusted to her new school, a peculiar phenomenon began to unfold. She found herself struggling to comprehend the teacher’s instructions, while her classmates seemed to grasp them effortlessly. The dissonance was jarring, leaving Leelu feeling perplexed and disconnected. Meanwhile, at home, she started receiving a series of enigmatic gifts – nut shells, trinkets, and other mysterious items.
Intrigued by their sudden appearance, Leelu began to wonder if these objects held some sort of mystical power. But what was the true explanation behind this bizarre sequence of events?
Little Badman by Humza Arshad & Henry White
Eleven-year-old self-proclaimed rap sensation Humza’s world is turned upside down when his music teacher vanishes into thin air. As more teachers from his school begin to disappear, Humza can’t shake off the feeling that something sinister is at play. With a keen sense of observation and the help of some trusted friends, he embarks on a thrilling adventure to unravel the mystery behind the vanishings and save his music career from going cold.
Chinglish by Sue Cheung
In the midst of the 1984 era, Jo and her family make Coventry their new home. As they settle into their abode above a Chinese food takeaway restaurant, Jo and her sister are thrust into the world of work by their parents. Told through the lens of a diary, this poignant narrative unfolds as a gripping tale of a dysfunctional family’s struggles.
The story is both heart-wrenching and laugh-out-loud funny, making it an absolute must-read for anyone looking to be inspired by tales of resilience and hope.
Bone Talk by Candy Gourlay
In the late 19th century, Samkad’s dream was to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a warrior. However, this aspiration was put on hold as an American arrived in their village, bringing with him sweet treats and a warm smile. But what initially seemed like a positive encounter took a darker turn when other Americans appeared, their intentions far from friendly.
Based on real historical events, Bone Talk is a thought-provoking novel that delves into complex themes such as friendship, war, and trust.
The Way Past Winter by Karen Milwood Hargrave
In a secluded forest dwelling, Millie shares her humble abode with her brother Oskar. Their cozy cabin is nestled among towering trees and blanketed with a thick layer of snow. When an unexpected knock at the door brings two strangers seeking refuge, they are welcomed into their temporary home.
The morning after, however, finds the visitors vanished along with Oskar, leaving Millie with no choice but to embark on a perilous quest to retrieve her missing sibling and uncover the mysterious events that have transpired.
The Harder They Fall by Bali Rai
Cal’s attempt to befriend Jacob, the new kid in school, is met with resistance. Despite Cal’s persistent efforts, Jacob remains uninterested in forming connections with his classmates. However, when Cal learns that Jacob harbors a secret, he feels compelled to shield him from the school bullies, even as Jacob seems determined to fend for himself. This heartwarming tale explores themes of redemption and bullying, as Cal’s unwavering loyalty ultimately wins over Jacob’s trust.
Sofia Khan is Not Obliged by Ayisha Malik
Sofia’s journey began with a series of unfortunate romantic encounters that left her feeling jaded and skeptical about the concept of love altogether. Yet, it was only after she agreed to chronicle her experiences in a comprehensive expose on Muslim dating that her perspective underwent a profound shift.
The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta
In a world that often seems cruel and unforgiving, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and powerless. But what if you’re given a chance to reclaim your voice and stand up for yourself? For a mixed-race gay teen, this is exactly what happens when he discovers the transformative power of art. Through his alter ego, the Black Flamingo, he finds solace in a creative outlet that allows him to express himself freely, unencumbered by the harsh realities of his surroundings.
This is a story about survival, resilience, and self-discovery – one that will leave you moved and inspired.
Out Of Heart by Irfan Master
Adam’s family life is marked by absence and silence. His father having abandoned them, his sister refuses to speak, leaving him feeling increasingly isolated. The loss of his grandfather adds to the sense of desolation, making it seem like he’s lost one of the few people who truly understands him. However, fate brings Adam an unlikely companion in William, a man who received his grandfather’s heart after passing away. William too has been left alone, with little to live for.
The chance encounter between Adam and William sets in motion a chain of events that irreversibly alters the course of their lives.
Kick the Moon by Muhammad Khan
Fifteen-year-old Ilyas is trapped between his passion for comic book artistry and the demands of his peer group. His aspirations to become a renowned artist are constantly threatened by the gang he belongs to, who have elevated their activities from simple graffiti to something more sinister. As Ilyas struggles to maintain his artistic ambitions, he realizes that extricating himself from this toxic environment has become an urgent priority – a challenge easier conceived than executed.
The Girl in the Broken Mirror by Savita Kalhan
