Written by science fiction and fantasy author N.K. Jemisin, “How Long ‘til Black Future Month?” was published on Nov. 27, 2018. This collection of short stories could interest both typical fantasy readers and those who prefer other genres with its engaging characters and settings. Photo fair use of Goodreads
N.K. Jemisin’s 2018 collection of short stories, “How Long ‘til Black Future Month?” contains well-developed characters and plots, making it an excellent read for Black History Month.
Published Nov. 27, 2018, “How Long ‘til Black Future Month?” is a collection of science fiction and fantasy short stories by N.K. Jemisin. It is a relatable Black History Month read, centering around very well-developed Black characters.
The anthology begins with “The Ones Who Stay and Fight,” a beautifully written piece that takes place in the seemingly utopian city of Um-Helat and sets the tone for the rest of the book. Told in a unique second-person perspective, the story provides a new variation on the relatively common trope of worlds that seem to be almost perfect, yet hide something more sinister, without becoming cliche.
Jemisin creates relatable characters by conveying strong emotions throughout the book, allowing readers to form connections with the characters and better understand the anthology.
Stories such as “Red Dirt Witch” and “The Effluent Engine” take place in real world environments, featuring true historical events with fantastical plot elements woven in, providing a contrast to the otherworldly setting of the first piece. However, even readers who prefer more unrealistic stories may enjoy these due to their relatability.
Jemisin creates relatable characters by conveying strong emotions throughout the book, allowing readers to form connections with the characters and better understand the anthology.
With stories following Black characters and involving issues that Black people have faced throughout history, “How Long ‘til Black Future Month?” is an excellent Black History Month read for those who enjoy fantasy stories but also appeals to those who ordinarily don’t.
