Sometimes, a good book can be a girl's best friend. I have been called on by Tameka to cure her itch, by revealing my favorite reads. This is a tough one since I don't get to peruse for pleasure as often as I'd like to. Sadly, indulging in theory and all things intellectual is "the job" and no longer brings me elation, so when I get the opportunity to just chill and submerge myself in a world of fantasy, that is the ultimate delight. Here are those that are currently in eyesight.

The Task:
(a) Fiction book
(b) Autobiography
(c) Non-fiction book
(d) A fourth book of your choice from any genre
Explain why the books are essential reads in no more than 30 words per book.

Fiction: Lola at the Library - Anna McQuinn and Rosalind Beardshaw

This one is obviously from Miss J's shelf, but I do enjoy experiencing Lola's excitement for books and love for reading as she takes a trip to the local library with her mommy. She stays for storytime and then picks out new books for her and mom to read at bedtime. It features a captivating happy nappy baby, what's not to love?








Autobiography: Life Is Not a Fairy Tale - Fantasia

Fantasia is an inspiration. Reading her story enlightened me to her struggles, survival and triumph. Although I have never rebelled against my education, I connected with many other aspects of her life because I have lived them.











Non-Fiction: The Rose That Grew From Concrete - Tupac Shakur

Poetry is one of my favorite forms of expression and this book was a must-have for me back in the day. 150 pages of Tupac's handwritten poetry from his youth. They provide a rare glimpse into the softer, more intimate side of a man who was born into a revolution and who died too young, but not before making his mark.









My Choice: On The Down Low - J.L. King

After a conversation with a friend about this "little secret" running wild within the black community, I decided to read King's confessions about his double life as a married man and adventurist on "the down low". From this one tale I became more aware of this secret society.