Book Club

The vision was the creation of a “for us, by us” book club for local youth to read works from writers of color they might not come across at school, at home or otherwise. To the detriment of students, the literary canon they’re often first exposed to is white writers by default. So, we center and prioritize nonwhite voices. But, that doesn’t mean we won’t read a white author’s work.

We are an inclusive, safe space for meaningful conversations about identity, race, justice and more across literary genres. There are adult facilitators to coordinate meeting logistics (and most importantly, bring the snacks!) and help spur discussion points, but meetings are youth-led.

All teens grades 8-12 are welcome:

• Regardless of where you live around L.A.-ish area or where/how you go to school
• Regardless of race, gender identity, etc.

We don’t have a permanent meeting spot, but we’re trying to pick places that are easily accessible to members (to get a ride, drive themselves, take public transit, etc.)

We choose meeting times based on current members’ availability. In general, we meet on Saturday or Sunday afternoons.

Yep, we got you. Food and drink are usually more snack-ish side (water, juice, chips, cookies), but we’re not opposed to ordering pizza or other having something more substantial if we have enough people scheduled to attend.

Check out what we’re reading and find details on our next meeting below.

Check below for details on our next meeting and past meetings.

To help us plan for how much food to buy and learn what you like to read, we ask participants to fill out a short form.

Sign up here → bit.ly/afrolabookclub

We also ask you to have a parent or guardian sign a consent form if you’re under 18. You can bring it with you to your first meeting, or email a copy (a cellphone pic will do) to dana@afrolanews.org.

Absolutely. We offer financial assistance and discounts to acquire books to those who need it. If you want to be here, we’ll help you get the book or buy it for you, no questions asked.

Please reach out to Executive Director Dana Amihere, who helps facilitate Book Club, at dana@afrolanews.org.