Today's Read Contributor A’Lelia Walker: The Harlem Renaissance Icon
In Joy Goddess: A’Lelia Walker and the Harlem Renaissance, A’Lelia Bundles, the great-granddaughter of A’Lelia Walker, gives us an intimate portrayal of her grandmother’s life. Released on June 10, 2025, the biography captures the essence of a woman who was both a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance and a key player in the development of African American culture during the early 20th century. A’Lelia Walker was not just the daughter of Madam C.J. Walker, America’s first female self-made millionaire; she was a visionary in her own right.
A’Lelia Walker’s extravagant parties and her role as a patron of the arts brought together intellectuals, artists, and musicians, contributing significantly to the Harlem Renaissance. Bundles’ research highlights A’Lelia’s unique position as a socialite who supported the emerging African American cultural scene by providing a space for groundbreaking artists like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Duke Ellington. Bundles’ careful study combines historical documents, family letters, and first-hand accounts, creating a portrait of A’Lelia as a cultural tastemaker and influential figure whose legacy has been overshadowed for too long.
The book is not only a celebration of A’Lelia Walker’s life but also a tribute to the Harlem Renaissance itself, which redefined African American art, literature, and music. By examining Walker’s efforts in supporting the artistic freedom of African American creators, Bundles deepens the understanding of how this cultural movement was nurtured and shaped.
Kuleana: A Memoir of Hawaiian Heritage and Legacy
On June 10, 2025, Sara Kehaulani Goo’s memoir Kuleana was released, a powerful reflection on the author’s Hawaiian heritage and her personal journey to understand her place within that legacy. The book explores the concept of kuleana, a Hawaiian term that encompasses the idea of responsibility, not only to oneself but to one’s family, community, and environment.
Goo’s memoir highlights her deep connection to the land and her ongoing efforts to preserve her family’s ancestral property amidst the pressures of modern development. Born and raised in Hawaii, Goo reflects on the challenges of growing up in a community under the threat of losing its cultural identity due to commercial development and the booming tourism industry. The author’s personal anecdotes are enriched by her exploration of broader historical forces, such as colonization and the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy, that have affected native Hawaiians.
Through Kuleana, Goo invites readers into her world, showing how the preservation of both her heritage and land has become a form of resistance against cultural erasure. Her journey to reclaim her roots and advocate for the continuation of Hawaiian traditions is a powerful narrative of personal and collective responsibility.
ABBA: The Legacy of a Swedish Pop Phenomenon
The Story of ABBA by Jan Gradvall, released on June 17, 2025, delves into the fascinating history of the Swedish pop band that revolutionized the global music scene. The biography offers an in-depth look at ABBA’s journey from their early days in Sweden to their international fame, using new interviews and extensive research to uncover the stories behind their hit songs and enduring influence.
Gradvall’s approach to ABBA is multifaceted, examining not just the band’s massive commercial success but also their cultural impact. He highlights how ABBA’s music transcended language barriers, becoming a global phenomenon and creating an unparalleled level of international stardom. The book includes details about the band’s creative process, including how they blended pop with elements of folk, rock, and disco, which allowed them to maintain a timeless appeal across generations.
ABBA’s influence can still be seen today in modern pop music, and Gradvall’s work provides readers with a comprehensive analysis of their lasting legacy. The biography explores not only their music but the personal dynamics within the band and their cultural relevance in the decades following their heyday.
Honoree Fanonne Jeffers and Molly Jong-Fast: Personal Reflections on Identity and Loss
Two other releases in June 2025 explore complex personal themes, adding to the rich diversity of nonfiction this month. Misbehaving at the Crossroads by Honoree Fanonne Jeffers (released June 17) is a collection of essays that explores the intersections of race, identity, and the human experience. Through her writing, Jeffers invites readers to reflect on the struggles of Black womanhood in America, touching on topics of societal expectations, personal trauma, and resilience. The book delves into contemporary issues while providing insight into how history continues to shape Black women’s lives.
Molly Jong-Fast’s How to Lose Your Mother, also released on June 17, is a poignant memoir that navigates the difficult terrain of grief and mother-daughter relationships. In this emotionally charged narrative, Jong-Fast shares her experiences with her famous mother, Erica Jong, who gained fame for her revolutionary feminist work in the 1970s. The memoir offers an honest reflection on the complexities of family dynamics, particularly when a mother is both a source of pride and emotional conflict. Through this deeply personal account, Jong-Fast explores how she processed her grief and the lasting impact of losing a parent.
Conclusion: The Rich Tapestry of June 2025 Nonfiction Releases
The nonfiction books released in June 2025 are a testament to the diversity and depth of stories that continue to shape our understanding of culture, identity, and history. From the vibrant world of the Harlem Renaissance to the struggles of indigenous communities in Hawaii and the global influence of ABBA, these books bring to light the lives and legacies of those who have shaped our world in profound ways. Each of these works contributes to the ongoing conversation about personal and collective responsibility, identity, and the cultural forces that shape our shared history.
