The Autobiography of Malcolm X is the story of one man’s remarkable journey from street criminal to international spokesman for black rights. Told in his own words, this powerful account chronicles Malcolm X’s life as a self-taught intellectual, uncensored rebel, and public figure who challenged white America – head on. This edition of the Autobiography of Malcolm X has been published to commemorate the fiftieth.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for people interested in African American history, the Civil Rights Movement, and biography.
Pros :
- The Autobiography of Malcolm X is an important piece of history.
- The book is well written and provides an interesting perspective on American history.
- It is a powerful account that tells the story of one man’s journey from street criminal to international spokesman for black rights
Cons :
- It is very dense and may be too difficult for some readers.
- It can be a bit dated, as much of it was written in the 1960s.
- It provides an important perspective on African American history that is still relevant today.
Learn more about the author
Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Malcolm X was raised in a household that fostered black pride and self-reliance. By the time he reached his late teens, he had become a criminal convicted of burglary and drug possession. In prison Malcolm X discovered the power of Islam and quickly became one of its most influential voices. After his parole in 1952, Malcolm traveled throughout America preaching the faith of Elijah Muhammad – until breaking with him over disagreements about race relations within the Nation of Islam. Abandoning his “X” name and embracing orthodox Islam (devoting himself to study at both Mecca and Cairo), Malcolm undertook an international lecture tour promoting Pan-Africanism before being assassinated on February 21st 1965 by three gunmen from the Nation Of Islam..
Reader Reviews
“I have never read anything like this in my life. It has made me look at the world and myself in a completely different way.”
“Malcolm X’s autobiography seemed so powerful because it was true. It wasn’t the glamorized story of a thug or gangsta rapper, but the real story of someone who grew up poor and without hope in America.”
“This is an extraordinary book. It is also a very difficult one. It demands from the reader something more than the usual interest in biography or history.”
“This is an amazing book. It really gives you a great insight into the mind of Malcolm X and his views on race relations in America.”
