Being the founder of SOTS, I can tell you that I’ve read a lot of black lesbian books.
It’s my passion. There’s nothing like a book you can truly identify with, and that’s what books about Sistahs in the Life do for me. You always feel like you either are that character or know someone just like her.
I have my favorite books from the genre, ones that have moved me to tears or to think. No bias here, but Water in a Broken Glass is my all time greatest. It’s so raw and passionate, the story of a woman torn between her true feelings for a woman and what everyone else wants for her. Something in this novel spoke to me, as if I were Tonya, enduring her struggles to be herself.
A question for you: What black lesbian novel has spoken to you? What’s your favorite?
July 22, 2006
sistahsontheshelf
5 responses to “Best. Black. Lesbian. Book. Ever.”
Chloe Fox
July 31st, 2006 at 06:07
I wouldn’t be the same person that I am now without having read the color purple and temple of my familiar when i was young.
I’ll have to add water in a broken glass to my wish list.
Anonymous
August 27th, 2007 at 22:15
I read all types of lit. Water in a Broken Glass is a great book; one of the best I have ever read. Period!
Micaela
May 18th, 2008 at 13:14
This IS my favorite book every. I have bought and loaned so many copies…I do wish Ms. Rose would grace us with a sequel. Fantastic! a must read.
Madison
February 22nd, 2009 at 05:29
Is this a lesbian book, Water in a Broken Glass?
Erin
June 4th, 2011 at 11:47
My all-time fave novel that features black lesbian characters would have to be The Serpent’s Gift by Helen Elaine Lee. If you’ve never read this book, do yourself a favor and get it now! As it’s a long book (400+ pages) it’s perfect for the summer.
Summary: The book is an epic story spanning over 50 years about two black families that come together after a tragedy. Lee weaves a seamless tapestry regarding the lives of these characters- you care about each and every one of them. Two of the main characters are Zella and Ouida- a black lesbian couple. It is my goal in life that when I grow up (I’m 34, lol!) I’ll be like Zella.
An absolutely fantastic read.