Awakening of Malcolm X by Ilyasah Shabazz and Tiffany D. Jackson - HIGH

Awakening of Malcolm X by Ilyasah Shabazz and Tiffany D. Jackson, 336 pages. Farrar, Straus, Giroux, 2021. $18 

Language: PG-13 (42 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content:G ; Violence: PG-13 (beatings, cruelties of prison mentioned) 

BUYING ADVISORY: HS – ESSENTIAL, MS - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

In 1946, as a 20yo, Malcolm Little is sentenced to 8-10 years in prison for theft. Life in the Charlestown State Prison can be brutal, but there are also chances to learn and tentative friendships. Throughout he is supported by his extended family and encouraged by to learn about the Nation of Islam. He also looks back at what brought him to prison – the frivolity, the “hustles”, the racism, too. And we see him emerge, ready to be the Malcolm X who fights for human rights. 

X’s own daughter worked with the incomparable Jackson to write a narrative look at these extremely formative years. It is very conversational, quick to read. A great complement to his own autobiography. 

 Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS