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” 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.

Very informative and entertaining book. I have really enjoyed reading this book.

I discovered Michael Harriot through his Twitter snack downs and history lessons. He predates Derek the work wear guy in that respect. Like many "melanin-challenged" Americans I often look for new Black books in February to honor Black History Month. This year I decided to go nonfiction instead of my YA fantasy of the fall. This is a dense but highly readable book. Harriot cites his sources exhaustively and also adds humorous footnotes of his own. It's like having a sarcastic uncle narrating your reading. The story follows a mostly linear path pre-Columbus through slavery, the Civil War, Jim Crow, Civil Rights, and even Obama and Trump. There are fascinating stories of many heroes we should know and villains we should know better. While this never intends to be a textbook (despite Harriot's higher ed credentials) I took off a star because there were too many digressions into personal stories. Maybe he should write a family history or memoir next? There were certainly enough stories.

Great book, a must read, factual and humorous. The atrocities endured are heartbreaking.

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

Enlightenment and enticing!!!

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