Malcolm X: The Man and His Times

by John Henrik Clarke (Editor)

The full impact of Malcolm X, his personality and his mission come urgently to life in this definitive anthology of his writings, speeches and manifestos along with writings about him by an international group of African and African American scholars and activists.

Genres: African American, History, Biography, Race, Nonfiction

360 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1991

Reviews

[Habeeb Akande · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent and must read book for anyone who loves Malcolm X. Unlike the autobiography, the compilation of X's speeches presented in the book allows the reader to gain more of an insight into the great orator and civil rights activist.

[Thomas Rush · Rating 5 out of 5]

For those of us who have a great deal of respect for Malcolm X, this book is simply a gem! It's a gem because of its eclectic mix of substantive material that can't be found anywhere else. The timing of some of the pieces is impeccable. For example, there are several pieces in this work by Black expatriates, those who happened to bump into Malcolm in that fateful period of between March, 1964, when he leaves the Nation and his death, while he was visiting overseas. These pieces give a rare glimpse at the personal Malcolm,with graphic frames of him in evolution. There is also a very substantive piece by Mrs. Betty Shabazz, Malcolm's widow, talking about him as a husband and what that meant. It's enlightening to hear from her how Malcolm viewed nearly everything in the collective, always taking into account how what he was saying or doing would benefit Black people as a whole. Mrs. Shabazz also makes the point of how Malcolm was able to learn from his mistakes. There is a piece by a journalist named Art Sears, Jr. who met Malcolm early in his career. Sears points out that whenever he left Malcolm a message, at some point, Malcolm always got back to him. Despite Malcolm's meteoric rise in popularity, Malcolm always treated Sears with importance, was kind to him and always addressed him with respect. Sears notes that Malcolm had the extraordinary characteristic of always making sure that anyone he met was treated with importance, that, in fact, there was no such thing as an unimportant person to Malcolm. There is also a very interesting dialogue between Malcolm and Kenneth B. Clark. These are just some of the things available in this book. Overall, this is one of those little-known books that has a lot to offer in the way of Malcolm's story. I love its contribution to the man we know as Malcolm X. It's well-worth reading and I am grateful that I had the privilege to read a book put together by John Henrik Clarke, Malcolm's friend and a man who held great respect for him. This book is a rare and great find!

PS--Chapter 4 in "Reality's Pen: Reflections On Family, History & Culture" by Thomas D. Rush is called "Inspiration." That chapter is really a moving dedication to Malcolm X. Anyone interested in Malcolm X will find that chapter worth one's while. In addition, there is much to be gained from the rest of the book.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best, if not the best book I've read this year. The variety of perspectives on different points in Malcom X's life and his philosophy help to paint a well rounded picture and allow the reader to understand the broader context in which events occurred. A must-read for anyone interested in American history or racial justice.

[Lazone Grays Jr · Rating 5 out of 5]

By far, one of the Best books I have ever read. I re-read it often and refer it to many Black male youth to read in order to further their critical thinking.

[Orlando Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! Worth multiple re-reads.

[Rafael Suleiman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good account of the life of Malcolm X.

[Nick Kiefer]

Great book about Malcolm X. Truly shows his passionate work, and how he held a big roll in Civil Rights. Recommend 100%

[Matthew Stolte · Rating 4 out of 5]

good format - insights into what Malcolm X was like as a person in day to day life

[Lazone Grays Jr · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite

[James Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Includes the inside perspective of an undercover NYPD cop who served as Malcolm's bodyguard.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic.