We rank authors using cumulative U.S. print book sales and BLK Bestseller appearances tracked since February 2024. Rankings are compiled using sales data provided by Circana BookScan.
Methodology, Mission, and More
Methodology
Our data is based on monthly print unit sales provided by Circana BookScan. You may read more about Circana.
The BLK Bestseller List is released on the second Thursday of the month, reflecting sales from the prior month. The list showcases 20 books across eight categories: Adult Fiction and Nonfiction (Hardcover and Paperback), Juvenile Fiction and Nonfiction, Young Adult, and Poetry. The special report on the top 50 titles with sales figures will be made available to reporting booksellers and publishers with Circana accounts (details are being worked out).
Since the book publishing industry lacks a definitive source of data on how authors identify themselves, we determine books by Black authors using a combination of BISAC codes and manual research.
We are actively collaborating with organizations in the book publishing industry to improve how authors can share information about their personal identities.
Despite our best efforts, occasional oversights may occur. If a bestselling title is inadvertently omitted, we won’t revise past lists. We will monitor the book’s sales for inclusion on future lists.
Mission
The mission of the Black Book Accelerator is to strengthen the Black book ecosystem and measurably increase overall stakeholder revenue.
The BLK Bestseller list not only celebrates cultural representation but also influences market trends, empowers readers to support Black literature, and inspires emerging Black writers by showcasing successes that might not have otherwise received recognition.
Our Team
The Black Book Accelerator is guided by a dedicated volunteer leadership team—each member a seasoned publishing professional with decades of industry experience. Learn more about us ▶
Click Here To See The Full List

Click Here To See The Full List
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