List of Books by Richard Wright

Richard Wright (1908-1962) was an acclaimed short story writer, poet, and novelist, whose work most often concerned the plight of African Americans in late 19th century to mid-20th century America. His best known books are Native Son, chosen by the Book of the Month Club as their first book by an African-American author, and his memoir Black Boy, a vivid portrayal of one black man's search for self-actualization in a racist society.

All Books By Richard Wright

Richard Wright Books

Discover all the books by author Richard Wright at Barnes & Noble. The internationally renowned American author of novels, poetry and short stories is best known for his books portraying African American life in segregated America. Wright's widely read novel, Native Son, is a story of a young black man, Bigger Thomas, who accidentally smothers a young white woman and is subsequently caught and put on trial. Shedding light on social injustice and systemic racism, the book is considered a pivotal work of American literature and is often included as required reading for high school and college students.

Black Boy, Richard Wright's powerful autobiographical memoir is another one of his books that would be hard to forget. The book's candid portrayal of racial discrimination, poverty and the sheer brutality of African American life in the Jim Crow South, stirred up controversy which lead to Black Boy being temporarily banned in American schools.

Richard Wright's books are celebrated for giving a voice to the plight of African Americans, examining racial oppression and having a lasting impact on the Civil Rights Movement. His other popular works include Uncle Tom's Children, Rite of Passage, The Man Who Lived Under Ground and 12 Million Black Voices. Explore Richard Wright's book collection online or visit your local Barnes & Noble store to browse in person. Looking for books by like-minded authors? Consider works by James Baldwin, Toni Morrison and Ralph Ellison.

How many books did Richard Wright write?

Richard Wright is the author of at least fifteen books including novels, works of non-fiction and short story collections.

Where to start with Richard Wright?

Since Native Son is Richard Wright's most famous book, it is a great one to start with. The novel is not only a staple in classic American literature but offers readers deep insights into how systemic racism causes social injustice.

Did Richard Wright receive the Nobel Prize?

Although Richard Wright's books are critically-acclaimed, he was not awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature during his lifetime.

10 Popular Richard Wright Books

Native Son
Black Boy
Rite of Passage
The Man Who Lived Underground
Uncle Tom's Children
Black Power
Richard Wright: Later Works
Richard Wright: Early Works
12 Million Black Voices
Seeing into Tomorrow: Haiku by Richard Wright