Hello there good people!
My name is Shantel , and I’m the heart, hands, and voice behind Blacklitology. By day, I’m a happily retired mom to an amazing teenager, a dedicated crafter (my glue gun is never cold for long!), and a lifelong connoisseur of the perfect cup of coffee and tea—no need to choose!
But my greatest passion and my proudest creation is my home library. This isn’t just a collection of books and records; it’s a living, breathing archive of Black excellence, creativity, and storytelling. And this blog is my way of inviting you into that space.
The “Why” Behind the Bookshelves
During the Pandemic, I found myself spending more and more time picking up books and reading just for leisure. Once I read Octavia Butler’s Earthseed Duology, I felt like I had been missing out on the greatness of Black authors, and TikTok literally influenced me to buy a record player. Going back to owning physical copies of media felt like the ultimate Gen X move.
Then I realized that these works weren’t just entertainment; they were a legacy. They were history, joy, resistance, and love printed on paper and pressed into vinyl. Yet, so often, these voices don’t get the mainstream platform they deserve.
I started this blog with one simple goal: to use my own collection as a starting point to amplify Black artists and authors. Every single recommendation you find here is something I own, love, and believe is worth your time. This is a personal journey, shared with you.
What This Blog Is All About
- Discovery: This is a place to find your next favorite read, listen, or watch. I sift through my shelves so you can discover incredible Black artists with confidence.
- Community: I’m not a critic in an ivory tower. I’m a fellow enthusiast who wants to chat about the art we love. Your thoughts and recommendations are welcome here!
- Celebration: This is a positive space dedicated to celebrating the vast and diverse contributions of Black creators across all genres and generations.
- Legacy: By exploring music history and classic literature alongside new releases, we honor the foundation upon which so much incredible modern art is built.
What You Can Expect to Find Here
When you spend time here, you’ll get:
- Heartfelt Book Reviews: Honest reviews of books from my personal library.
- Music Deep Dives: Explorations of iconic albums, artists, and the history behind the music.
- Movie Recommendations: Curated picks for films that moved me, made me think, or simply brought me joy.
- A Cozy Corner: A warm, inclusive community for people who believe in the power of a good story and a great song.
- Fun & Connection: Keep an eye out for book giveaways and exchanges—my way of sharing the love and putting more amazing books into your hands!
So, with that being said, I truly hope you guys enjoy the content and find it both entertaining and educational.
With love and a well-loved book,
