A review by kareimer
The Awakening of Malcolm X by Tiffany D. Jackson, Ilyasah Shabazz

4.0

This book was a very thoughtful and beautiful portrayal of Malcolm X's time in prison. I think we have this idea that revolutionary thinkers and people come from places of great education and/or privilege. However, this book singlehandedly destroys that stereotype. Malcolm's time in prison is what gave him the education, debating talents, interpersonal skills, and dedication to speak about racial injustice to the masses. I think this book also showed the importance of our narratives of history and knowing who this narrative serves. Notably, the myth that the United States created by white people is false as the United States is built by the slavery of Black people. (I would also add the genocide of indigenous peoples across the US and Canada). I also loved the examination of the importance of religion. I think it is so interesting that he respects and loves his father and his teachings as a minister. Yet he ultimately hated the religion he preached. I wish there was more on this. But, I loved hearing his thoughts on the importance of removing himself from Christianity (another form of whiteness forced on him as a Black person). A final thought (with little analysis) is the repetition of his father's word "up you mighty race" was so powerful. Overall great book, wish the book went later on in his life to hear about his activism beyond the prison walls.