James Baldwin was one of the most iconic writers and essayists of the 20th century. The works of Baldwin can still make every hair on your arms stand at attention, especially his descriptions of objects and experiences that are presented in ways like nothing you’ve ever read before. He'll probably leave you screaming “YAS” or “YOU GO BOY.”

To celebrate James Baldwin and the contribution he has made to American literature, specifically African-American literature, Queer literature and the social justice community, here is a list of eight Baldwin novels you should add to your summer reading list, immediately!

1. "Giovanni's Room"

2. "Go Tell It On The Mountain"

3. "Notes of a Native Son"

4. "Another Country"

5. "The Fire Next Time"

6. "Tell Me How Long The Trains Been Gone"

7. "If Beale Street Could Talk"

8. "Going To Meet The Man"