Situated in the heart of Georgia, Atlanta is a diverse metropolitan with a long history within the American context. The State of Georgia is nearly as old as America itself since Georgia was included in the original 13 colonies. From the Civil War to the 1960s Civil Rights Movement, the capital of Georgia has been a main player in the span of American history. Today, it continues to be a rich cultural hub, specifically for African Americans, offering hot spots for culinary and art gems.
In this Bookstr listicle, our travels take us through Atlanta, Georgia — where we highlight 5 different novels that explore the cultural and historical aspects of Atlanta.
Trigger Warning: This article may be triggering to some readers due to the brief mention of certain topics such as racism, domestic abuse, and sexual abuse.
Gone With the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
Published in 1936 and set against the turbulent backdrop of the American Civil War, although Mitchell’s novel is perceived as problematic in the way it depicts African Americans, it is also a long-running classic that takes place in Atlanta, Georgia. The main storyline follows spoiled and manipulative Scarlett O’Hara, the daughter of a rich plantation owner, as she copes with the changes the country faces through the War and the following Reconstruction. The novel is also famous for her love affair with the suave Rhett Butler.
Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter
Her family is ripped apart when Claire Scott’s oldest sister, Julia, goes missing without a trace. Two decades later, another girl goes missing, with hints that the disappearance may be connected with Julia. As Claire begins to dig deeper into her sister’s vanishing, she soon learns that Julia has many secrets. The investigation leads Claire to shocking discoveries that may change everything.
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
Recently married, Celestial and Roy look forward to their future as they begin their new lives together in the New South. Embracing the concept of the American dream, both partners have aspiring careers. However, their lives come to a crashing halt when Roy is arrested and thrown into prison for 12 years for a crime that Celestial knows he has not committed. With the physical separation and passing of time, Celestial leans on their mutual friend, Andre, for comfort while Roy is incarcerated. When Roy is released early, will the married pair be able to fit ruptured pieces back together and continue their lives?
The Color Purple by Alice Walker
Set in the rural countryside of Georiga, Alice Walker’s classic The Color Purple relays the narratives of Black women from the early 20th century. Within a period of twenty years, sisters Celie and Nettie communicate their experiences through letters to each other. Through these written responses between the characters, Alice Walker can bring representation and awareness to a list of obstacles Black women face, including domestic and sexual abuse.
One Night in Georgia by Celeste O. Norfleet
Set in the historically eventful summer of 1968, three friends take a road trip from New York to Atlanta ahead of their last year at Spelman College. The three friends, Zelda, Veronica, and Daphne, are inseparable, although they come from very diverse backgrounds. Accompanied by their mutual friend, Daniel, the group must navigate a country wrecked by racial tensions to make it to their final destination.
As a cultural and historical gem of the American South, Atlanta is sure to be a favorite on everyone’s travel list. Reading these books before visiting can help one appreciate the city a bit more.
To continue exploring America through literature, read our article The American Tour: Discover New York’s Past and Hidden Secrets.
For more recommendations relating to American travel, check out our bookshelf American Tour Series: Authors and Novels From Each Region of the US.
