List of Books by James Baldwin

James Baldwin (1924–1987) was a celebrated African–American author of novels, essays, poetry and plays. His emotionally powerful and highly reflective books made Baldwin a prominent voice in the civil rights movement where he was well–known for giving impactful and eloquent speeches. Baldwin spent much of his writing career abroad, which allowed him to gather perspective on racial, sexual and social tensions inherent in American society. His most famous works include the semi–autobiographical novel Go Tell It on the Mountain and his book of essays Notes of a Native Son. Baldwin's other popular books include The Fire Next Time, Another Country and Giovanni's Room. His thought–provoking quote, "Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced" first appeared in his essay for The New York Times.

All Books By James Baldwin

James Baldwin Books

Discover all the books by American author, James Baldwin, at Barnes & Noble. Baldwin's thought-provoking writing dives into African American struggles in the times of the Civil Rights Movement. His books are known for exploring themes of race, class, social pressure, sexuality and masculinity. Whether you're interested in his novels, essays, short stories, poetry or plays, we've got you covered.

Baldwin's first novel, Go Tell It on the Mountain is often considered his most famous work. The book is a coming-of-age story of a 14-year-old boy who grapples with faith, his sense of self and family conflicts and pressures. Although it's not specifically a story about racial injustice and economic inequality, the novel's plot depicts these hardships that were faced by the Black community.

Aside from novels, James Baldwin was a prolific writer of nonfiction. In his book of essays and one of his most admired works, Notes of a Native Son, Baldwin describes life in Harlem reflecting on his own personal experiences as well as criticizing the social dynamics of 20th-century America. Baldwin's other popular books include The Fire Next Time which examines the consequences of racial injustice and Giovanni's Room, a classic of gay literature and a favorite among readers.

James Baldwin spent much of his life traveling the world and in hopes of getting away from racial prejudice, he settled in France during the 1940's. From there he traveled to various countries where he gained new perspectives that influenced his writing. After battling the illness for some time, James Baldwin passed away from stomach cancer on December 1st, 1987, in France.

Explore Baldwin's books online or visit your local B&N bookstore to browse them in person. If you're a fan of James Baldwin's writing, consider reading his biography or books by related authors, Richard Wright, Toni Morrison and Ralph Ellison.

10 James Baldwin Books You Should Read (or Re-Read)

Go Tell It on the Mountain
The Fire Next Time
Giovanni's Room
Notes of a Native Son
If Beale Street Could Talk
Another Country
Going to Meet the Man
No Name in the Street
Nothing Personal
The Evidence of Things Not Seen