Diversify Books 

Three Books by Women of Color 
By Gretchen Lembcke-Pena, Editor-in-Chief 

Women’s History Month is a time for women to celebrate themselves, especially women of color. To highlight the importance of diversity, here are three books written by women of color. 

“Blood Scion” is Deborah Falaye’s debut novel. Published in 2022, it is a powerful fantasy story about 15-year-old Sloane, who discovers she is a descendant of the Orisha African gods. She is later enlisted in the Luci’s army, a military system that has destroyed those within her community. To avenge her people, Sloane defies the system from within. From African mythology to a strong, Black, female protagonist, “Blood Scion” allows women of color to identify within this story. 

“Blood Scion was an awesome read,” said Chelsea Morin, a junior. “I really enjoyed seeing such a young, strong, female protagonist.” 

Another great release that has gained popularity within the book community is “Babel” by R.F. Kuang. The story follows Robin Swift, a Chinese character who works hard to be accepted into Oxford University’s Royal Institute of Translation, also known as Babel. Kuang’s writing is intricate and covers colonial resistance and how language is used as a tool to maintain the British Empire. 

“This [book] is just so amazing,” said Jess Owens, a popular book YouTuber. “I have read a fair amount of books that were on my anticipated list for [2022] and I hadn’t been wowed. But this hit it out of the park!” 

Finally, for those who prefer nonfiction, Daisy Hernández and Bushra Rehman’s “Colonize This! Young Women of Color on Today’s Feminism” is a collection of anecdotes from queer women of color navigating intersectional feminism. Funny, enticing and relatable, the authors clearly express their points in each story. 

“I felt seen reading this book,” said Mabel Gondres, a senior. “Women of color should be allowed to set their own rules in feminism rather than following the white feminism structure.” 

Diversity in literature has become more critical than ever, especially within our ever-evolving society. Listen to the voices of people of color and listen to what they have to say; you may learn a thing or two about a society that you may have been unaware of. 

Chelsea Morin reading “Blood Scion.” Photo/G. Lembcke-Pena. 
R.F. Kuang, author of “Babel,” discusses her book. Photo/G. Griffin/Here & Now. 
Lynn students discuss “Colonize This!” Photo/G.Lembcke-Pena. 

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