In this episode of Real Stories, Real Growth, we’re diving deep into Black love—its beauty, its struggles, and the powerful stories that shaped my understanding of relationships. From my early teenage years navigating my parents’ divorce to discovering the richness of African American literature, I take you on a journey through the books that answered my biggest questions about love, family, and identity.

We’re talking Omar Tyree, Eric Jerome Dickey, Terry McMillan, and Toni Morrison—the authors who gave me a front-row seat to grown folks' conversations and helped me see myself in ways I didn’t even realize I was missing. Plus, I’m sharing how these stories gave me comfort, perspective, and a new appreciation for the complexities of Black families.

Oh, and if you're looking for age-appropriate books for younger readers? Stay tuned until the end—I’ve got some great recommendations for teens and young adults!

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• My personal experience with love and family during my parents’ divorce
• How discovering Black literature changed the way I saw love stories
• The raw and unfiltered storytelling of Omar Tyree’s Flyy Girl
• The importance of family dynamics in books like Waiting to Exhale and Mama
• The impact of The Coldest Winter Ever and The Bluest Eye on my perspective
• Why not all love stories end happily—and what that taught me about life
• The resilience of Black families and the representation we need in literature
• Book recommendations for young adults navigating identity and choices

Books Mentioned in This Episode:

• Flyy Girl – Omar Tyree
• Just Say No – Omar Tyree
• Waiting to Exhale – Terry McMillan
• Mama – Terry McMillan
• The Wedding – Dorothy West
• The Coldest Winter Ever – Sister Souljah
• The Bluest Eye – Toni Morrison

Young Adult & Teen Book Recommendations:

• The Hate U Give – Angie Thomas
• Dear Martin – Nic Stone
• You Should See Me in a Crown – Leah Johnson
• Long Way Down – Jason Reynolds

Join the Conversation:
Let’s talk about it! What books shaped your understanding of love and family? Send me a DM or tag me in your favorite Black literature recommendations on Instagram and TikTok @reelstoriesrealgrowth.

Don’t Forget to Subscribe!
If you enjoyed this episode, hit that subscribe button and leave a review! New episodes drop every Thursday, so stay tuned for more cultural deep dives and personal stories.