From Page to Screen: Black Authors (Post-2000) Whose Books Became Successful Movies & Series

Storytelling doesn’t stop at the page—it often finds new life on the screen. Over the last two decades, books by Black authors have not only topped bestseller lists but also inspired some of the most talked-about films and series of our time. From historical retellings to sharp satire and heartwarming romance, these works prove that stories rooted in Black experiences are powerful, versatile, and capable of captivating audiences worldwide.

1. Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly (2016)

Adaptation: Hidden Figures (2017 film)

This inspiring nonfiction work brought to light the stories of three African American women mathematicians at NASA during the Space Race. The film adaptation earned widespread critical acclaim and multiple Oscar nominations. (Sharee Hereford, Reader's Digest)

2. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas (2017)

Adaptation: The Hate U Give (film)

A powerful young adult novel addressing police violence and racial identity, it was adapted into a poignant film featuring Amandla Stenberg and a strong supporting cast including Regina Hall, Issa Rae, and Common.

3. Erasure by Percival Everett (2001)

Adaptation: American Fiction (film)

Originally published in 2001, Everett’s satirical novel critiquing the publishing industry's stereotypical expectations for Black writers was adapted into the acclaimed film American Fiction. Directed by Cord Jefferson and starring Jeffrey Wright, it has been praised for its sharp wit and social commentary and garnered multiple Oscar nominations.

4. The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris (2021)

Adaptation: Hulu series The Other Black Girl (premiered September 13, 2023)

This debut novel explores themes of representation, belonging, and office politics through a twisty thriller lens. Its Hulu adaptation has received praise for creatively bringing Harris’s satirical tension and critique of the publishing world to life.

5. The Perfect Find by Tia Williams (2022-ish)

Adaptation: The Perfect Find (Netflix film, summer 2023)

A smart, romantic coming-of-age story about a woman navigating love and career reinvention. The Netflix adaptation stars Gabrielle Union and resonates with readers—who often recommend watching after reading the book! (Sharee Hereford)

6. Black Girl in Paris by Shay Youngblood (2000)

Adaptation: Black Girl in Paris (short film, 2013, HBO)

Initially published in 2000, this lyrical novel follows a young Black woman’s journey to Paris to pursue her writing dream. Director Kiandra Parks brought the story to the screen as a short film, which aired on HBO and was featured at the American Black Film Festival.

From nonfiction histories that spotlight hidden figures to bold satires that challenge the publishing industry, these adaptations highlight the extraordinary scope of Black storytelling in the 21st century. They prove that audiences are eager for stories that reflect a wider range of voices and experiences. As more works by Black authors are adapted, the screen continues to become a space where diversity and creativity thrive—bringing stories once confined to the page into living, breathing cultural moments.