Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America―The New York Times Bestselling Retelling of US History Through the Experiences of Black Americans

Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America is an absolute powerhouse of insight, humor, and truth. From the very first page, I was hooked. This book does something remarkable—it takes the stories, struggles, and triumphs of Black Americans and presents them with unapologetic honesty, wit, and clarity. It is informative, entertaining, and deeply thought-provoking all at once. The way the author weaves history together is both engaging and eye-opening. Every chapter is packed with lesser-known facts, critical perspectives, and cultural context that challenge the sanitized versions of history most of us were taught in school. I loved how the book blends storytelling, humor, and cultural commentary. It educates while keeping you laughing and thinking at the same time. What makes this book truly special is the voice. It is bold, unfiltered, and empowering. It makes you feel connected to the people behind the history, their resilience, creativity, and influence on American culture. It also prompts reflection on systemic injustices and the ways history has been shaped to obscure the contributions and experiences of Black communities. I felt inspired, enraged, enlightened, and proud all in one reading experience. Overall, Black AF History is a must-read for anyone who wants a deeper, more authentic understanding of America. It is thorough, entertaining, and unforgettable. Whether you are new to Black history or already familiar, this book offers fresh insights and a perspective that demands attention. I cannot recommend it highly enough—it is bold, educational, and one of the most engaging history books I have ever read.

“Black AF History” is a phenomenal, necessary, and wildly entertaining reckoning. Michael Harriot combines deep historical research with a uniquely engaging (and hilarious) voice to tell the story of America as it truly happened, not as it’s been mythologized. This book educated me, enraged me, inspired me, and made me laugh out loud. It’s the defiant, unflinching, and brilliant history lesson we all need. An instant classic.

Great and informative while written in a way that keeps you interested. It’s definitely not your boring history books.

Black AF History is an absolute powerhouse from start to finish. Bell Hooks’ storytelling is deeply personal yet profoundly universal—she unpacks generational trauma, resilience, and Pride with a voice that’s raw, honest, and illuminating. What I loved most: • Authentic storytelling: Hooks shares intimate family memories alongside broader historical context—her vivid recollections made me feel like I was right there with her. • Educational yet engaging: This isn’t just a memoir—it’s a lesson in American history through the lens of Black experience, told with clarity and purpose. • Emotional impact: I laughed, I teared up, and I reflected deeply on my own family history and identity. Whether you’re already familiar with Hooks or discovering her for the first time, this book is a vital read—rich in wisdom, warmth, and an unsparing truth about Black America.

This book was recommended to me by a friend and wow. The historical insight that's provided was amazing. I thoroughly enjoyed the relatable familial stories throughout. One of the best reads I have on my bookshelf for sure.

I am currently reading "Black AF History" and I am halfway through. It's been wonderful reading! The stories of the people in black history are uplifting! So much of their history were things that I experienced growing up knowing the field hands and the domestic help. (Even though I was born in 1957, we still had Nannies and housekeepers...and I loved them all so much!) But now, the story changes to events during reconstruction, and some of the things, the crimes, the behavior toward black people has me in tears. SHOCK tops off the strong emotion because the atrocities were so severe and the punishment for such things were...nothing... It makes me sick and angry at the same time. I strongly suggest white folks read this. There are things you have never been taught, things you have never been told, things hidden from all of us that you should know. The stories are all confirmed. Read this book. It is life changing. I just wish I had been able to read it sooner. Michael Harriot...Thank you.

I recently embarked on an exciting journey with this incredible book that has truly captured my heart. After diving into the audiobook, I realized that I absolutely had to get my hands on the hardcover version to fully immerse myself in its richness. This book is nothing short of extraordinary and deeply inspiring—it uncovers a compelling perspective on "Black" history that many of us might overlook, unearthing truths that are too often whitewashed. If you’ve been hesitating about picking it up, let this be your nudge! Now is the perfect time to make the leap, and trust me, you won’t regret it!

This is the perfect book to begin Black History Month. Written with attention to detail, truth, and plentiful humor, it sheds light on the parts of history which have been too “inconvenient” for more conventional historians to write about. Well worth the money and time invested. Get a few for your white friends. Or better yet, recommend it most highly to them (well deserved) so they’ll buy it themselves!

THIS BOOK IS A VIBE! I love it so much. My favourite read while travelling

I'm already hooked and I'm only on page one , I bought a bootleg copy of this book from eBay and had to buy the real thing from Amazon Michael Harriet you are a GOAT for putting this fine piece of literature together thank you

Such an important book in these dark times

Bought this after seeing it talked about on TikTok. Important subject matter. And as a writer myself I am appreciative of the way this book is presented. Chapters are all different lengths and formats keeping it super interesting.

Only read the introduction as it arrived last night & I’m already drawn in. Love it!