What are some well - known African American classic novels?

One of the most famous is 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' by Zora Neale Hurston. It tells the story of a young African American woman's journey through life and love in the early 20th century.

Nadine Gordimer's 'July's People' is also considered a classic. It explores the complex relationship between the races during a time of political upheaval in South Africa. The story is about a white family that has to rely on their black servant, July, for survival during a civil war - like situation.

Sure. For African novels, 'The Palm - Wine Drinkard' by Amos Tutuola is quite famous. It's a unique blend of Yoruba folktales and modern storytelling. Another is 'Half of a Yellow Sun' by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, which tells the story of the Biafran War in Nigeria. For African American novels, 'Invisible Man' by Ralph Ellison is a classic that delves into the invisibility of African Americans in society. 'Native Son' by Richard Wright is also well - known, exploring themes of race, poverty, and violence in the context of African American life in Chicago.

Alice Walker is a very well - known author. Her novel 'The Color Purple' is a classic in African American feminist literature. It tells the story of Celie, a poor, uneducated black woman in the South who overcomes great hardships and abuse. Walker's writing is known for its vivid portrayal of the lives of African American women and their struggles for equality and self - expression.

One well - known author is Zora Neale Hurston. Although she was writing earlier in the 20th century, her influence on contemporary African American novels is significant. Her work 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' is a classic. Ta - Nehisi Coates is a more recent author who has made a name for himself with his novel 'Between the World and Me'. Octavia Butler is also renowned for her science - fiction works that often incorporate African American experiences.

One of the prominent authors is Zora Neale Hurston. Although she was writing earlier in the 20th century, her influence on African American contemporary novels is huge. Her work 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' is a classic. Then there's Ta - Nehisi Coates, who has written books that explore race and identity in modern America. Jesmyn Ward is also a well - known contemporary author with works that often deal with the struggles of African American communities in the South.

Attica Locke is a contemporary author who has made a mark in this genre. Her novels often combine elements of crime with political and social issues relevant to the African American community. For example, her works might explore how power dynamics within a city or community can lead to criminal activities and how African American characters navigate these complex situations.

Mildred D. Taylor has made great contributions as well. With her novel 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry', she has given voice to African American teenagers in the context of the segregated South. Her writing is rich in historical detail and emotional depth.

Some great modern American classic novels include 'Moby - Dick' by Herman Melville. This novel is not only about a whale hunt but also delves deep into themes of obsession, good and evil, and the human condition. 'The Sun Also Rises' by Ernest Hemingway is a classic that portrays the so - called 'Lost Generation' after World War I, with its themes of love, war, and disillusionment. Additionally, 'Beloved' by Toni Morrison is a powerful exploration of slavery and its aftermath.

Terry McMillan is a well - known author. Her books like 'Waiting to Exhale' and 'How Stella Got Her Groove Back' are very popular in this genre. Another is Zora Neale Hurston. 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' is a classic that showcases her writing talent in African American romance. Dorothy West is also famous for her work in this area.