Indie Books from the Midwest

In this anthology from Midwestern indie press Belt Publishing, Williamson has brought together Black writers from around the Midwest, Rust Belt, and the Great Plains. Some of the writers share their experiences living in Midwestern cities. Others share what it’s like being from the country. But whatever part of the region that they are from, each writer has a story to tell. Some pieces focus on cultural commentary, pushing back against cultural narratives that erase the Black experience from the Midwest. Some contributors share personal essays about their specific lived experience. This is a fascinating read full of so many new-to-me writers!

Also from Belt Publishing, Midwest Futures examines what the future holds for the region. Originally home to vast swaths of farmland and hundreds of factories, the Midwest is now struggling. Factories are closing and farming has become more and more monopolized. Christman takes a look into the heart of the Midwest and its possible futures. He explores Midwestern culture and identity, its past and how its history impacts its present and future. The book is made up of several essays, each looking at the region from a different angle, and together creating a complete picture.