It’s been 20+ years since Queen Bey came on the music scene. Obviously, with each album came a new era defining moment that just so happen to pair perfectly with some must-read books!
THE COWBOY CARTER ERA
Beyoncé has changed the game once again with her new single "Texas Hold 'Em" and her upcoming album, Cowboy Carter, promises to be THE album of the summer. To match this iconic new era, we give you Hot Boy Summer, which follows an iconic friend group (in Texas!!) having the summer of their lives! Could there be a more perfect match for Bey's new music?!
the renaissance era
Renaissance is an ode to queerness, fun, freedom, and takes inspiration from many dance tracks of the 70s and 90s, just like Rana Joon and the One and Only Now! This lyrical coming-of-age novel is set in 1996 and follows Rana, an Iranian American teen who wants to honor her deceased friend's legacy be entering a rap contest.
the homecoming era
Kings, Queens, and In-Betweens is perfect for everyone’s inner dancer. A pep rally, a block party, or a homecoming, like this album, Nima Kumara-Clark learns to accept herself and her eccentricities to the fullest.
the Destiny’s Child era
Facing the Sun demonstrates the highs and lows of friendship. You and your friend group coordinate outfits before you hang in public. Or, you get into a very public friend breakup where you later reconcile and realize you were both foolish. The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants meets The Education of Margot Sanchez in this Caribbean-set story about four friends who experience unexpected changes in their lives during the summer when a hotel developer purchases their community’s beloved beach.
the second coming of Destiny’s Child era
You may have friendships that have since ended. This hurts your heart and you constantly reminisce looking through old photos. Nevertheless, you know how to pick yourself up and bounce back. When We Were Infinite embraces new friendships just like Bey (hello Michelle).
the dangerously in love era
Are you crazy in love? All the new relationship feelings are in this album. These Violent Delights is just as captivating. A time to fall head over heels in love. Teamwork with your significant other. It’s obviously you both against the world.
the b'day era
The Latin flair of “Beautiful Liar’ is reminiscent of Kiera Johnson in SLAY embracing herself above all else – especially telling someone “everything you own in a box to the left.”
the i am... sasha fierce era
Beyoncé's Sasha Fierce era is the most divisive time with proud and intimate reflective moments in equal measure. Legendborn encapsulates the same daring behavior as sixteen-year-old Bree Matthews completely breaks from the previous mold in this twist on the Arthurian classic.
the 4 era
Wings of Ebony highlights the artistry of Afroism – both deeply rich and precarious but always energetic. Whether your favorite song is "Run The World (Girls)" or "Love on Top", Wings of Ebony showcases all the feelings for more growth similar to this era of Beyoncé.