Books have always held the power to shape minds and build bridges—and for Sheymirra Lawson, they’ve become a tool for transformation. As the founder of AfroLit Alcove, an online bookstore spotlighting Black authors from around the world, Lawson is creating a vibrant space where culture, storytelling, and community come together.
Launched on July 5, 2024, AfroLit Alcove was born from Lawson’s passion for reading and her desire to share that love with others. What began as a personal dream has grown into a literary haven for readers of all ages looking for stories that reflect the richness and diversity of the Black experience.
“Representation matters,” Lawson says. “It matters in classrooms, in media, and especially in books. AfroLit Alcove is about making sure our stories are told, heard, and loved.”
The bookstore features a curated selection of books—from children’s titles and young adult fiction to historical reads, memoirs, and contemporary literature—all written by Black authors. She also introduced Blind Date with a Book, a fun and mysterious way for readers to discover new titles without knowing the author or genre beforehand.
Lawson runs AfroLit Alcove largely on her own, with family pitching in during vendor events. Her dedication shows up in every detail—from the thoughtful book selections to her customer-centered approach at pop-ups and online. Each sale isn’t just a transaction; it’s an invitation to engage with literature that affirms, challenges, and inspires.
In addition to running the bookstore, Sheymirra wears many hats. She leads children’s church lessons every Sunday, and recently made her acting debut in Stupid Fucking Bird at Birmingham Festival Theatre.
Her creativity, commitment to community, and storytelling instincts drive every venture she takes on.
“I just want people to feel seen,” she says. “To know that their stories matter—and that we’re keeping them alive, one page at a time.”
From bookshelves to stages, Lawson is building something lasting. And with AfroLit Alcove, she’s not just selling books—she’s helping people rediscover themselves through the stories they read.
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