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Malcolm X #2
The Awakening of Malcolm X
The Awakening of Malcolm X is a powerful narrative account of the activist's adolescent years in jail, written by his daughter Ilyasah Shabazz along with 2019 Coretta Scott King-John Steptoe award-winning author, Tiffany D. Jackson.
No one can be at peace until he has his freedom.
In Charlestown Prison, Malcolm Little struggles with the weight of his past. Plagued by nightmares, Malcolm drifts through days unsure of his future. Slowly, he befriends other prisoners and writes to his family. He reads all the books in the prison library, joins the debate team and the Nation of Islam. Malcolm grapples with race, politics, religion, and justice in the 1940s. And as his time in jail comes to an end, he begins to awaken -- emerging from prison more than just Malcolm Little: Now, he is Malcolm X.
Here is an intimate look at Malcolm X's young adult years. While this book chronologically follows X: A Novel, it can be read as a stand-alone historical novel that invites larger discussions on black power, prison reform, and civil rights.
No one can be at peace until he has his freedom.
In Charlestown Prison, Malcolm Little struggles with the weight of his past. Plagued by nightmares, Malcolm drifts through days unsure of his future. Slowly, he befriends other prisoners and writes to his family. He reads all the books in the prison library, joins the debate team and the Nation of Islam. Malcolm grapples with race, politics, religion, and justice in the 1940s. And as his time in jail comes to an end, he begins to awaken -- emerging from prison more than just Malcolm Little: Now, he is Malcolm X.
Here is an intimate look at Malcolm X's young adult years. While this book chronologically follows X: A Novel, it can be read as a stand-alone historical novel that invites larger discussions on black power, prison reform, and civil rights.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published January 5, 2021
73 people are currently reading
4065 people want to read
About the author
Ilyasah Shabazz
10 books227 followersIlyasah Shabazz, third daughter of Malcolm X, is an activist, producer, motivational speaker, and the author of the critically acclaimed Growing Up X and the picture book Malcolm Little: The Boy Who Grew Up to Become Malcolm X. She lives in Westchester County, New York.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 232 reviews
January 7, 2021
YESSSS the first 5 star read of 2021! I'm so happy that it was this book. This book comes after X chronologically; however, it can be read as a stand alone. Thank you so much to FSG for providing me a copy of this book for review. All thoughts are my own. CW: use of the n-word, mistreatment of Black prisoners, physical violence, suicide, suicidal ideation, drugs, gambling, racism.
"Hard to imagine a world that considers us equals when the core of our very existence is human and they don't consider us that."
The Awakening of Malcolm X focuses on the portion of Malcolm X's life when he was imprisoned. The story is told in an interesting narrative where readers have the opportunity to see Malcolm reflect on events that happened prior to him ending up in prison and applying the feelings of those experiences to his current experience. While Shabazz and Jackson took a little creative liberty in how they portrayed certain events, there is so much to enjoy and learn from this story. There is an intimate portrayal of the relationship that Malcolm had with his siblings and how they worked together to make sure that Malcolm "awakened" himself to discover who he was meant to be. Shabazz and Jackson also emphasize and highlight how much Malcolm valued education. It reminded me of how my own father taught me to always value my education. I knew that Malcolm was well rounded and well read, but as a reader you really learn how invested he is in reading all sorts of books to become self-educated. I didn't even realize he was on a debate team!
With Shabazz and Jackson I expected nothing but well designed social commentary. There is a clear paralleling of Black men and White men who served time. Through Malcolm's awakening he quickly learns how the world will view and treat him as a Black man. In fact, most of the conversations that take place around the incarceration of Black men are still applicable today in 2021. It was definitely difficult to read at some points; however, it's conversation that needs to continue. I'm hoping that Shabazz intends to write at least two more books that details his ongoing relationship with the Nation of Islam. While it plays a big role in the context of this book and in Malcolm's awakening process, there is a small hint at the indication of the the later fall out that Malcolm will have with Elijah Muhammad.
Overall, I loveeeddddd this novel. It was easy to follow, it captures Malcolms inner monologue in a way that connects the reader to his experiences. There will be younger readers that will get a lot out of reading this book. From learning about Malcolm X, to learning about Black history (there is a mention of the 1921 Tulsa Riots), to learning about the importance of family there appears to be something for everyone. If you haven't considered reading this book, I would definitely recommend picking it up.
"Hard to imagine a world that considers us equals when the core of our very existence is human and they don't consider us that."
The Awakening of Malcolm X focuses on the portion of Malcolm X's life when he was imprisoned. The story is told in an interesting narrative where readers have the opportunity to see Malcolm reflect on events that happened prior to him ending up in prison and applying the feelings of those experiences to his current experience. While Shabazz and Jackson took a little creative liberty in how they portrayed certain events, there is so much to enjoy and learn from this story. There is an intimate portrayal of the relationship that Malcolm had with his siblings and how they worked together to make sure that Malcolm "awakened" himself to discover who he was meant to be. Shabazz and Jackson also emphasize and highlight how much Malcolm valued education. It reminded me of how my own father taught me to always value my education. I knew that Malcolm was well rounded and well read, but as a reader you really learn how invested he is in reading all sorts of books to become self-educated. I didn't even realize he was on a debate team!
With Shabazz and Jackson I expected nothing but well designed social commentary. There is a clear paralleling of Black men and White men who served time. Through Malcolm's awakening he quickly learns how the world will view and treat him as a Black man. In fact, most of the conversations that take place around the incarceration of Black men are still applicable today in 2021. It was definitely difficult to read at some points; however, it's conversation that needs to continue. I'm hoping that Shabazz intends to write at least two more books that details his ongoing relationship with the Nation of Islam. While it plays a big role in the context of this book and in Malcolm's awakening process, there is a small hint at the indication of the the later fall out that Malcolm will have with Elijah Muhammad.
Overall, I loveeeddddd this novel. It was easy to follow, it captures Malcolms inner monologue in a way that connects the reader to his experiences. There will be younger readers that will get a lot out of reading this book. From learning about Malcolm X, to learning about Black history (there is a mention of the 1921 Tulsa Riots), to learning about the importance of family there appears to be something for everyone. If you haven't considered reading this book, I would definitely recommend picking it up.
September 17, 2024
This is his origin story, but sadly, it could’ve been the same story for any number of Black incarcerated men from that era and even from today. I only know a little about him, but I would love to learn more, and so like Malcolm X, I shall continue my learning through more reading. What I know about him and those I know who still follow his teachings and are members of the Nation, I respect a lot. Makes me wish he were still alive to help lead us out of today’s darkness. Feels like little has changed since his assassination.
January 24, 2021
Capitalizing on the success of her first book about her famous father, Ilyasah Shabazz has written a second book, with a focus on Malcolm X's years in jail. This book starts with his being found guilty for robbing houses outside Boston, ostensibly at the behest of his white girlfriend, who sings a different song in court. I thought the book was only okay because I could not tell what was truth and what was fiction since Malcolm was assassinated in February, 1965 when Ilyasah was two years old so she would have had no personal insight into her father's thoughts. That said, I expect she was able to read his letters and speak to her aunts, uncles and mother so that it is fairly accurate, especially his conversion to Islam and his misplaced faith in Elijah Mohammed and the Nation of Islam, a mistake that would prove fatal. I enjoyed the quotes at the beginning of each chapter.
P.S. I am looking forward to reading the newest biography about this iconic, often maligned black leader, The Dead Are Arising.
P.S. I am looking forward to reading the newest biography about this iconic, often maligned black leader, The Dead Are Arising.
December 28, 2021
An enjoyable accompaniment to his autobiography. Suspect its marketed as YA to educate people at as early an age as possible and I have no issue with it.
The audiobook was well narrated.
The audiobook was well narrated.
January 25, 2021
The Awakening of Malcolm X is a powerful narrative account of the activist's adolescent years in jail, written by his daughter @ilyasahshabazz along with @writeinbk.
Y’all, I highly recommend this book. I finished it in one day. Book 2 of 2021. It’s a powerful narrative that centers on Malcolm as an adolescent as he explores personal tribulations of race, family, and faith. We get to see him struggle with the weight of his past, and it felt so incredibly intimate. I loved being exposed to this side of him, who once was just a young Black kid living through the horrors of life around him. Unfortunately, he had to grow up quickly. Black boys don’t get to stay a kid for long.
This is a well-written book that explores important issues about prison reform, our criminal justice system, and of course, race. I loved how the book showed how religion helped mold him into a man. This is a beautiful novel that will leave a big impression on you and all the teens who will one day read it.
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Y’all, I highly recommend this book. I finished it in one day. Book 2 of 2021. It’s a powerful narrative that centers on Malcolm as an adolescent as he explores personal tribulations of race, family, and faith. We get to see him struggle with the weight of his past, and it felt so incredibly intimate. I loved being exposed to this side of him, who once was just a young Black kid living through the horrors of life around him. Unfortunately, he had to grow up quickly. Black boys don’t get to stay a kid for long.
This is a well-written book that explores important issues about prison reform, our criminal justice system, and of course, race. I loved how the book showed how religion helped mold him into a man. This is a beautiful novel that will leave a big impression on you and all the teens who will one day read it.
Follow me for more bookish content!
https://www.instagram.com/lex_withthe...
May 19, 2021
The Awakening of Malcolm X is a powerful narrative which accounts the activist's young adult years in in an extremely tough Massachusetts prison setting written by his daughter. The book explains the self discovery of young Malcolm and how he was determined to maintain his sanity and not allow his mind to be imprisoned. Although Malcolm went through a lot, this book provided a clear picture of how he remained close to his siblings and how they all discovered Islam together. This book also proved to us the more things change, the more they really remain the same. This timeline was during the early 1930s prison system and in 2021 things are really no different with regard to mass incarceration and systemic and economic racism. Great Interview at the end of this audiobook with the author and narrator.
January 3, 2021
Full review to come as part of coloredpaages blog tour.
September 3, 2023
In this sequel to X, Malcolm finds religion and his voice while in prison. Even though it was dark at times, it was a testament to his resiliency. What could have broke Malcolm lead him to become a minister and the lead spokesperson of the Nation of Islam.
January 12, 2021
“If you stick a knife in my back nine inches and pull it out six inches, there’s no progress. If you pull it all the way out, that’s not progress. The progress is healing the wound that the blow made.“
If we were to do a word association test right now and you asked me to associate Malcolm X with a word, I would say, ‘enigmatic’ with zero hesitation. Ever since I came across few clips of his speeches during the last year, I made it my intention to learn in depth about him and what motivated him to grow into the strong, captivating personality that he did. As a non-American, my knowledge about Malcolm X was very basic; apart from his status as a Civil Rights Activist who reverted to Islam, I didn’t know much. The Awakening of Malcolm X is a perfect introduction to both readers like me as well as the ones who have grown up learning about this monumental figure as their history.
The book covers the formative years of Malcolm X alternating between memories of his childhood and teenage years, and his time in prison. What struck me most was how intelligent he was even from a young age. Malcolm grew in a family which stressed on self-love and education, their real heritage; the evenings in his home would be spent with Malcolm and his siblings learning from their mother as she imparted various lessons using real life examples. Despite the existing racism, Malcolm grew up in a happy home and this is extremely evident from the yearning which his narration and dreams inspire. When Malcolm’s father is killed and later on his mother is sent to an institution, a sense of waywardness enters Malcolm’s life. He spends most of his teenage years indulging in illicit activities and straying away from his upbringing. Reality hits Malcolm, when he is arrested for breaking & entering and larceny, and allocated 8-10 years of jail time.
“There is no better than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance the next time.”
During his prison years, we see a transformation take place in Malcolm. From a young man simply trying to complete his prison sentence and get back to the hustle life he knew, he goes back to his roots. Starting with just a dictionary, he begins to educate himself on various subjects. Through his eyes, we also see the cruelty that his fellow inmates are shown both in the face of judiciary that placed a sentence on their heads to the prison guards who treat them like animals. Malcolm begins to understand that being educated about the problems his people face is the only way to move forward. In this process, Malcolm is also exposed to Islam through his siblings and eventually reverts. As he begins to correspond with Elijah Muhammad, founder of Nation of Islam, his sense of faith and justice combined continue to grow, making him more firm in his beliefs.
I had high hopes from this book, especially because it was written by Malcolm’s daughter, and I’m so happy to say that TAOMX not only met those expectations but also went above and beyond. This book will leave you in an electric atmosphere! Malcolm’s ache to fix the system around him, snatch back the dignity that has been taken away from him and his people, catches you like fire. It is a book filled with life lessons and gives you an intricate insight into Malcolm’s life before he began to continue with his role as an activist publicly. If you enjoy reading historical fiction, memoirs, books which challenge the state our society is in and fill you with a zeal to transform the world, this book is for you! And if you don’t fall into any of the descriptions, I would still request you to read it. Malcolm X is the kind of person whose life’s story needs to be read about. If you don’t want to jump into his autobiography right away, this would be a perfect beginning.
Thank you, Colored Pages Tours for providing me with an e-ARC through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
If we were to do a word association test right now and you asked me to associate Malcolm X with a word, I would say, ‘enigmatic’ with zero hesitation. Ever since I came across few clips of his speeches during the last year, I made it my intention to learn in depth about him and what motivated him to grow into the strong, captivating personality that he did. As a non-American, my knowledge about Malcolm X was very basic; apart from his status as a Civil Rights Activist who reverted to Islam, I didn’t know much. The Awakening of Malcolm X is a perfect introduction to both readers like me as well as the ones who have grown up learning about this monumental figure as their history.
The book covers the formative years of Malcolm X alternating between memories of his childhood and teenage years, and his time in prison. What struck me most was how intelligent he was even from a young age. Malcolm grew in a family which stressed on self-love and education, their real heritage; the evenings in his home would be spent with Malcolm and his siblings learning from their mother as she imparted various lessons using real life examples. Despite the existing racism, Malcolm grew up in a happy home and this is extremely evident from the yearning which his narration and dreams inspire. When Malcolm’s father is killed and later on his mother is sent to an institution, a sense of waywardness enters Malcolm’s life. He spends most of his teenage years indulging in illicit activities and straying away from his upbringing. Reality hits Malcolm, when he is arrested for breaking & entering and larceny, and allocated 8-10 years of jail time.
“There is no better than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance the next time.”
During his prison years, we see a transformation take place in Malcolm. From a young man simply trying to complete his prison sentence and get back to the hustle life he knew, he goes back to his roots. Starting with just a dictionary, he begins to educate himself on various subjects. Through his eyes, we also see the cruelty that his fellow inmates are shown both in the face of judiciary that placed a sentence on their heads to the prison guards who treat them like animals. Malcolm begins to understand that being educated about the problems his people face is the only way to move forward. In this process, Malcolm is also exposed to Islam through his siblings and eventually reverts. As he begins to correspond with Elijah Muhammad, founder of Nation of Islam, his sense of faith and justice combined continue to grow, making him more firm in his beliefs.
I had high hopes from this book, especially because it was written by Malcolm’s daughter, and I’m so happy to say that TAOMX not only met those expectations but also went above and beyond. This book will leave you in an electric atmosphere! Malcolm’s ache to fix the system around him, snatch back the dignity that has been taken away from him and his people, catches you like fire. It is a book filled with life lessons and gives you an intricate insight into Malcolm’s life before he began to continue with his role as an activist publicly. If you enjoy reading historical fiction, memoirs, books which challenge the state our society is in and fill you with a zeal to transform the world, this book is for you! And if you don’t fall into any of the descriptions, I would still request you to read it. Malcolm X is the kind of person whose life’s story needs to be read about. If you don’t want to jump into his autobiography right away, this would be a perfect beginning.
Thank you, Colored Pages Tours for providing me with an e-ARC through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
May 21, 2022
“Wake up ,wake up Malcolm “
This book is AMAZING……
Malcolm X Al haj Malik shabaz is a great example of a pure and deep transformation to the soul
And mind , this story will shed a light to any person who thinks that his life hasn’t getting any brighter when you hit the rock bottom thinking it is the end.
through out this heart nourishing book,
You get to have hope, renewed energy and find purpose in your life.
May Allah grant him paradise
In many parts of the story , i felt Malcolm’s struggles , weakness , and the longing for knowledge to be saved and free by Allah .
thats what i call a great biography in a form of a story.
Definitely a must read 💚👏🏻
——
Note: the author includes Malcolm x’s reading list and it was awesome 👏🏻
—-
كتاب رائع يجب على كل قاريء اقتناء نسخة منه فاللغة متوسطة وسهل
لقد نجحت الكاتبة في رسم شخصية مالكوم في السجن وهذا النحول العميق في شخصيته جعل الشخصية قريبة وواقعية جدا خاصة أنها تحكي سيرة في قالب قصصي ممتع للغاية.
لن أنسى حديثه عندما ذهب أول مرة لمكتبة السجن وتعرفه على الكتب بسبب صديقه بيمبلي
لقد التهم الكتب والمعرفة والجميل في هذا الكتاب أنه ضم قائمة بالكتب التي قرأها مالكوم في فترة السجن
كتاب ينفذ لقلبك ويعطي أملا في أشد أوقاتك سوادا
فما هو أسوأ من أنك تعتقد أنك على حق ومن ثم يحدث أمر جلل لتدرك لاحقا الأكاذيب التي تلقفها عقلك لتقرر لاحقا أن تخطو نحو الحقيقة بقلب سليم وعقل يرغب بالعلم والفهم
رحمك الله الحاج مالك شباز حياتك تدرس
فكما قال عبدالوهاب المسيري في كتابه الفردوس الأرضي عن حياة مالكوم اكس:"
ترتيلة تمجّد روح الإنسان التي يُمكِنها البقاء والاستمرار في مواجهة أكثر الظروف إفسادا وتدميرا"
كانت رحلتي مع هذا الكتاب في إحياء ذكرى ولادة مالكوم إكس ١٩ من مايو
This book is AMAZING……
Malcolm X Al haj Malik shabaz is a great example of a pure and deep transformation to the soul
And mind , this story will shed a light to any person who thinks that his life hasn’t getting any brighter when you hit the rock bottom thinking it is the end.
through out this heart nourishing book,
You get to have hope, renewed energy and find purpose in your life.
May Allah grant him paradise
In many parts of the story , i felt Malcolm’s struggles , weakness , and the longing for knowledge to be saved and free by Allah .
thats what i call a great biography in a form of a story.
Definitely a must read 💚👏🏻
——
Note: the author includes Malcolm x’s reading list and it was awesome 👏🏻
—-
كتاب رائع يجب على كل قاريء اقتناء نسخة منه فاللغة متوسطة وسهل
لقد نجحت الكاتبة في رسم شخصية مالكوم في السجن وهذا النحول العميق في شخصيته جعل الشخصية قريبة وواقعية جدا خاصة أنها تحكي سيرة في قالب قصصي ممتع للغاية.
لن أنسى حديثه عندما ذهب أول مرة لمكتبة السجن وتعرفه على الكتب بسبب صديقه بيمبلي
لقد التهم الكتب والمعرفة والجميل في هذا الكتاب أنه ضم قائمة بالكتب التي قرأها مالكوم في فترة السجن
كتاب ينفذ لقلبك ويعطي أملا في أشد أوقاتك سوادا
فما هو أسوأ من أنك تعتقد أنك على حق ومن ثم يحدث أمر جلل لتدرك لاحقا الأكاذيب التي تلقفها عقلك لتقرر لاحقا أن تخطو نحو الحقيقة بقلب سليم وعقل يرغب بالعلم والفهم
رحمك الله الحاج مالك شباز حياتك تدرس
فكما قال عبدالوهاب المسيري في كتابه الفردوس الأرضي عن حياة مالكوم اكس:"
ترتيلة تمجّد روح الإنسان التي يُمكِنها البقاء والاستمرار في مواجهة أكثر الظروف إفسادا وتدميرا"
كانت رحلتي مع هذا الكتاب في إحياء ذكرى ولادة مالكوم إكس ١٩ من مايو
February 13, 2021
“If you’re not ready to die for it, take the word ‘freedom’ out of your vocabulary” LOVED this adaptation of how X evolves as a youngster to arrive at critical consciousness! Can’t wait to share with the students!!
January 19, 2022
I was ignorant to the details of Malcom X’s years in jail and journey to the Nation of Islam. I appreciated connecting the dots in the formation of the leader and activist he became known for. A testament to education, miseducation, purpose, and self knowing. Solid audiobook choice.
Read
March 2, 2021Graded By: Brian
Cover Story: Looking to the Future
Drinking Buddy: Without Alcohol
MPAA Rating: PG-13: Violence, drug and alcohol use, mild language
Talky Talk: Painful
Bonus Factor: Nation of Islam
Bromance Status: Ally
Read the full book report here.
Cover Story: Looking to the Future
Drinking Buddy: Without Alcohol
MPAA Rating: PG-13: Violence, drug and alcohol use, mild language
Talky Talk: Painful
Bonus Factor: Nation of Islam
Bromance Status: Ally
Read the full book report here.
February 12, 2021
Excellent book for young readers interested in learning more about the early life of Malcolm X. It’s very relatable, intriguing and inspiring if you are also a follower of this gifted speaker and religious leader. 4.5 stars rounded up for author’s note and the audiobook’s interview with the author and narrator at the end.
Read
March 23, 2024"Hard to imagine a world that considers us equals when the core of our very existence is human and they don't consider us that."
April 27, 2022
CWs: racial slurs, racism, mistreatment of prisoners, violence, drugs
This is a historically accurate (with some fictionalized elements) portrayal of Malcolm X's young adult life , specifically the period he spent in prison. During this time, he is introduced to the Nation of Islam through his family, and we follow him as he initially dismisses the religion they have joined, but is slowly drawn to Islam through his brothers and Elijah Muhammad.
The way prisoners, especially Black prisoners, were and still are treated is frankly depicted here, and it's even though it's horrible to read about, it's important to be aware of the structural racism within the prison system in the US.
I only know the barebones of Malcolm's history, so most of this was new to me and a very interesting read. Even though his relationship with Elijah Muhammad is still going strong by the end, we're already given hints that all is not well within the Nation of Islam. I also have to say I didn't know much about what the NoI entailed before reading this, and I'm definitely curious to find out more.
I really like this format, where we get to see the important events happen as they actually played out, but with a fictional narrative spun around it. It's a great way to learn more about history, and while I'm not sure I'm interested in the book that precedes this one, I do hope the authors continue to write about Malcolm's journey.
This is a historically accurate (with some fictionalized elements) portrayal of Malcolm X's young adult life , specifically the period he spent in prison. During this time, he is introduced to the Nation of Islam through his family, and we follow him as he initially dismisses the religion they have joined, but is slowly drawn to Islam through his brothers and Elijah Muhammad.
The warden stands off to the side of the mess hall and cats become real quiet. One wrong move and he’ll throw all of us in the hole without a single care. Mack’s voice creeps in my head, and I try not to compare him to a plantation owner. We’re not slaves, but it’s hard to imagine this place as anything less than that type of hell. How does one live his life desiring to terrorize another?
The way prisoners, especially Black prisoners, were and still are treated is frankly depicted here, and it's even though it's horrible to read about, it's important to be aware of the structural racism within the prison system in the US.
I only know the barebones of Malcolm's history, so most of this was new to me and a very interesting read. Even though his relationship with Elijah Muhammad is still going strong by the end, we're already given hints that all is not well within the Nation of Islam. I also have to say I didn't know much about what the NoI entailed before reading this, and I'm definitely curious to find out more.
I really like this format, where we get to see the important events happen as they actually played out, but with a fictional narrative spun around it. It's a great way to learn more about history, and while I'm not sure I'm interested in the book that precedes this one, I do hope the authors continue to write about Malcolm's journey.
January 7, 2021
Thank you to Fierce Reads and Colored Pages Tours for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Malcolm X has always been a hero of mine: I read his autobiography when I was eleven, and again at sixteen, and I’ve always looked up to his incredible strength and determination. So I was absolutely thrilled that Colored Pages Book Tours have given me the opportunity to review this, a YA novelisation covering just his years in prison, the period of his life where he learned to be both Muslim and activist.
The first half of the book is incredibly tough to read. The bleak hopelessness of young Malcolm’s first few years in prison, interwoven with the utter dissoluteness of his earlier Harlem life (shown in a series of flashbacks as he dreams of the events that have led him here) are absolutely devastating, particularly knowing what he was capable of and what he would eventually become. All credit to Shabazz and Jackson’s writing: his emotions – guilt and anger and helplessness – are just suffocating.
A particularly visceral scene is one in which Malcolm chemically straightens his hair, fully in the knowledge that it will burn his scalp. The water pipes in his family’s Michigan home are frozen, leaving him unable to wash out the lye; his only option is to wash his hair in the toilet, and the moment is such a symbol of the degradation and pain that Black people have endured in an attempt to be accepted by white people.
But the second half of the book, once he finds Islam and starts learning about the oppression of Black people (his ‘awakening’, if you will), was… nothing short of glorious. The Nation of Islam was wrong about a lot of things (as X would come to realise in later life), but this book mainly focuses on the aspects of it that did align with true Islam, particularly prayer. Seeing his twin journeys towards connecting with God, and learning about the systematic oppression of Black people, was so powerful and inspiring.
Malcolm is resistant to Islam at first, and it’s desperation and hopelessness that ultimately drives him to start learning about it. His impatience to find out everything, learn the ritual prayers, practice as perfectly as he can, is almost childlike in its innocence and eagerness, and truly just made my heart so happy.
For him, spreading Islam within the Black community was one and the same with his anti-racist activism, and though he’d started re-learning to read before accepting Islam, it’s his acceptance of religion that turbocharges his drive to learn about Black history and racism. Really the main focus of the book is the fact that Black people descend from a lineage of incredibly rich and developed society in Africa, and the ways in which American society is set up so as to deliberately and systematically oppress Black people. Both points are reiterated over and over, but it never feels repetitive and it hits every time (and besides, given that the target audience is young YA, for whom this could well be their first introduction to structural racism in so many words, I think the approach of really driving it home absolutely works!).
I absolutely loved the messages of this book, and the way it depicted Malcolm’s thoughts and emotions in such an accessible and vivid way, and I can’t wait for more people to read it!
CW: racism; n-word; Ku Klux Klan; violence; incarceration & police brutality; mention of death penalty; references to lynching; mentions of suicide & brief suicidal ideation
Malcolm X has always been a hero of mine: I read his autobiography when I was eleven, and again at sixteen, and I’ve always looked up to his incredible strength and determination. So I was absolutely thrilled that Colored Pages Book Tours have given me the opportunity to review this, a YA novelisation covering just his years in prison, the period of his life where he learned to be both Muslim and activist.
The first half of the book is incredibly tough to read. The bleak hopelessness of young Malcolm’s first few years in prison, interwoven with the utter dissoluteness of his earlier Harlem life (shown in a series of flashbacks as he dreams of the events that have led him here) are absolutely devastating, particularly knowing what he was capable of and what he would eventually become. All credit to Shabazz and Jackson’s writing: his emotions – guilt and anger and helplessness – are just suffocating.
A particularly visceral scene is one in which Malcolm chemically straightens his hair, fully in the knowledge that it will burn his scalp. The water pipes in his family’s Michigan home are frozen, leaving him unable to wash out the lye; his only option is to wash his hair in the toilet, and the moment is such a symbol of the degradation and pain that Black people have endured in an attempt to be accepted by white people.
But the second half of the book, once he finds Islam and starts learning about the oppression of Black people (his ‘awakening’, if you will), was… nothing short of glorious. The Nation of Islam was wrong about a lot of things (as X would come to realise in later life), but this book mainly focuses on the aspects of it that did align with true Islam, particularly prayer. Seeing his twin journeys towards connecting with God, and learning about the systematic oppression of Black people, was so powerful and inspiring.
Malcolm is resistant to Islam at first, and it’s desperation and hopelessness that ultimately drives him to start learning about it. His impatience to find out everything, learn the ritual prayers, practice as perfectly as he can, is almost childlike in its innocence and eagerness, and truly just made my heart so happy.
For him, spreading Islam within the Black community was one and the same with his anti-racist activism, and though he’d started re-learning to read before accepting Islam, it’s his acceptance of religion that turbocharges his drive to learn about Black history and racism. Really the main focus of the book is the fact that Black people descend from a lineage of incredibly rich and developed society in Africa, and the ways in which American society is set up so as to deliberately and systematically oppress Black people. Both points are reiterated over and over, but it never feels repetitive and it hits every time (and besides, given that the target audience is young YA, for whom this could well be their first introduction to structural racism in so many words, I think the approach of really driving it home absolutely works!).
I absolutely loved the messages of this book, and the way it depicted Malcolm’s thoughts and emotions in such an accessible and vivid way, and I can’t wait for more people to read it!
CW: racism; n-word; Ku Klux Klan; violence; incarceration & police brutality; mention of death penalty; references to lynching; mentions of suicide & brief suicidal ideation
December 29, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley who gave me an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. The Awakening of Malcolm X is beautifully written, making the reader feel both the heartaches and losses suffered in prison, as well as the warmth of the happier memories that Malcolm looks back on. One thing I really enjoyed about this read is the research it prompted me to do on my own about Malcolm, his family, and the history of Islam. The pace of the story as a whole was a little slow for my liking, but overall I highly recommend The Awakening of Malcolm X!
February 22, 2025
growing up, I always heard of Malcom X, but didn’t know much about him. this novel follows his life during prison, and the events that led up to his incarceration. it discusses how he found his faith and passion behind bars. I found this book to be the perfect read with everything happening in America. Malcom X did not follow blindly, even behind bars. he questioned authority and stood up for what he believed in. he wanted to teach others and empower them. I’m glad I read this book and learned more about such an impactful leader.
February 22, 2021
Explores historical threads of race, faith, and family as they weave together in the transformation of youthful, imprisoned Malcolm Little into empowered, purpose-driven Malcolm X. Written by his daughter along with the 2019 Coretta Scott King-John Steptoe award-winning author.
April 20, 2021
This book was engaging and I learned a lot from reading it. My only complaint would be the time skips occasionally left me a little confused, maybe adding dates to the beginnings of chapters would have helped with this. Overall, I think it was well done.
Read
June 8, 2021
Trigger & Content Warnings
Racism & white supremacy
Suicide mentioned
Alcohol consumption
Recreational drug use
Police brutality
Death row executions mentioned
Racism & white supremacy
Suicide mentioned
Alcohol consumption
Recreational drug use
Police brutality
Death row executions mentioned
December 14, 2021
A terrific look at what it is like being oppressed and disadvantaged in a society. Enlightening and engrossing. Highly recommended.
February 2, 2022
A really strong audiobook that gains a full star because of how great the narrator was. A nice, pretty believable account of Malcolm X’s entry into the Nation of Islam and his rise as an incredible orator.
January 1, 2021
(Disclaimer: I received this book from Netgalley. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
TW: racism, assault, mentions of death row execution, mentions of suicide
The Awakening of Malcom X asks questions about the unfairness of the injustice system, a society that looks at black men as criminals without a second glance. How the justice systems turns these men into non-human entities. How all these men need is an accusation, being in the wrong place, to have their existence questioned. And even though slavery was abolished, they've never been free. The release of this book is even more timely considering 2020's Black Lives Matter protests that have re-incited these conversations.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
TW: racism, assault, mentions of death row execution, mentions of suicide
The Awakening of Malcom X asks questions about the unfairness of the injustice system, a society that looks at black men as criminals without a second glance. How the justice systems turns these men into non-human entities. How all these men need is an accusation, being in the wrong place, to have their existence questioned. And even though slavery was abolished, they've never been free. The release of this book is even more timely considering 2020's Black Lives Matter protests that have re-incited these conversations.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
February 15, 2021
MUST READ!
I loved everything about this book and learned a lot as well.
Have you ever thought about reading the dictionary and/or writing all the words listed in the dictionary? I know I have and after reading this novel, I think I will start the process this year. I love to learn and will continue to educate myself.
Takeaways from the book:
- Progress is healing the womb.
- Sometimes you have to keep your business to your chest. SO TRUE!
-When you know yourself, you can sense what type of character anybodys made of. ❤
The Souls of Black Folks by W.E.B. Du Bois was mentioned in this book and now I'm interested in reading it.
Go check out this book if you haven't already done so
I loved everything about this book and learned a lot as well.
Have you ever thought about reading the dictionary and/or writing all the words listed in the dictionary? I know I have and after reading this novel, I think I will start the process this year. I love to learn and will continue to educate myself.
Takeaways from the book:
- Progress is healing the womb.
- Sometimes you have to keep your business to your chest. SO TRUE!
-When you know yourself, you can sense what type of character anybodys made of. ❤
The Souls of Black Folks by W.E.B. Du Bois was mentioned in this book and now I'm interested in reading it.
Go check out this book if you haven't already done so
January 21, 2021
Highly recommend the audiobook!
January 5, 2021
You can’t separate peace from freedom because no one can be at peace unless he has his freedom. —MALCOLM X
I loved seeing Malcolm evolve. He started as a bitter man and turned into a strong, confident and powerful one. It was amazing to read the details that went into that change. I loved that his experiences made him a great person, not full of revenge.
We follow him through parts of his childhood and prison, to after prison and what he became. The change of timelines throughout the book was difficult to decipher at times. The transition was choppy and left me confused multiple times.
I disagree with this book being labeled YA. He was 17 for part of the book but the majority of it, he was 20 and older. It entails his life in prison and his life living on his own, away from his family. It did not feel YA at all. I can see the benefits to young people reading the book, I just don’t agree with the YA label. It is written in first person and did not come off smoothly. The writing left me wanting more, needing more descriptions, more details, more emotions. It felt in contrast to the powerful story that was happening. I didn’t feel it reel me in like I expected. I can only attribute it to the writing because the story itself was enthralling. The conversion from a story of his past, to a story on paper was inferior to my expectations.
“We win more when we are together. That message is worth more than all the words you can ever muster.” I learned powerful lessons of unity and love. He is definitely someone to admire.
Thank you to Fierce Reads (Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group) for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. This book releases today January 5, 2021.
https://www.theopenbooks.net/2021/01/...
I loved seeing Malcolm evolve. He started as a bitter man and turned into a strong, confident and powerful one. It was amazing to read the details that went into that change. I loved that his experiences made him a great person, not full of revenge.
We follow him through parts of his childhood and prison, to after prison and what he became. The change of timelines throughout the book was difficult to decipher at times. The transition was choppy and left me confused multiple times.
I disagree with this book being labeled YA. He was 17 for part of the book but the majority of it, he was 20 and older. It entails his life in prison and his life living on his own, away from his family. It did not feel YA at all. I can see the benefits to young people reading the book, I just don’t agree with the YA label. It is written in first person and did not come off smoothly. The writing left me wanting more, needing more descriptions, more details, more emotions. It felt in contrast to the powerful story that was happening. I didn’t feel it reel me in like I expected. I can only attribute it to the writing because the story itself was enthralling. The conversion from a story of his past, to a story on paper was inferior to my expectations.
“We win more when we are together. That message is worth more than all the words you can ever muster.” I learned powerful lessons of unity and love. He is definitely someone to admire.
Thank you to Fierce Reads (Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group) for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. This book releases today January 5, 2021.
https://www.theopenbooks.net/2021/01/...
April 6, 2023
(CW; police brutality, hate-crimes, death, institutionalized slavery, religion).
Up, up, you mighty race!
With Malcom X's daughter providing key never-before heard details of his life, this fictionalized account of his formative years during his prison sentence is an amazing & groundbreaking medium that others who may have never heard his message can be introduced to him, and therefore his legacy. I read through this book in 24 hours, it was so captivating and beyond eye-opening, even as somebody who considers themselves to know relatively more than the average person about social justice leaders. Like I mentioned, this can be a great way for others who aren't aware of Malcom X to become introduced. Not to mention that just as a fictional story by itself, it is captivating & moving in its own right, even if you don't know how the rest of his life played out, or the important, lasting legacy he left behind, not just in his native black community, but communities of minorities & allies all over the world. He surpassed what he ever imagined he could accomplish, even long after his death.
You are Black...Proud, smart, and Black. Beautifully Black, scholarly Black, lovingly Black...You are a child of God, strong and protected by the universe. Now, Malcom, answer my question-where do you come from?
This is a great book, please read it. As one of my first five star reads of the year, I can't recommend this enough times to enough people.
Up, up, you mighty race!
With Malcom X's daughter providing key never-before heard details of his life, this fictionalized account of his formative years during his prison sentence is an amazing & groundbreaking medium that others who may have never heard his message can be introduced to him, and therefore his legacy. I read through this book in 24 hours, it was so captivating and beyond eye-opening, even as somebody who considers themselves to know relatively more than the average person about social justice leaders. Like I mentioned, this can be a great way for others who aren't aware of Malcom X to become introduced. Not to mention that just as a fictional story by itself, it is captivating & moving in its own right, even if you don't know how the rest of his life played out, or the important, lasting legacy he left behind, not just in his native black community, but communities of minorities & allies all over the world. He surpassed what he ever imagined he could accomplish, even long after his death.
You are Black...Proud, smart, and Black. Beautifully Black, scholarly Black, lovingly Black...You are a child of God, strong and protected by the universe. Now, Malcom, answer my question-where do you come from?
This is a great book, please read it. As one of my first five star reads of the year, I can't recommend this enough times to enough people.
February 28, 2022
Ilyasah Shabazz the daughter of Malcolm X has written a fictional account of her father's imprisonment at the "infamous" Charlestown State Prison in Massachusetts.
In 1946 Malcolm and his friend, Malcolm "Shorty" Jarvis have been convicted of grand larceny, breaking and entering, possession of stolen property and firearms possession.
The two had been convinced by Malcolm' white girlfriend, Sophia and her friend to rob houses in "wealthy" white neighborhoods outside of Boston.
Both Malcolm and Shorty believe that their girlfriends will testify on their behalf.
Remember this is in 1946, LONG before mixed couples were "legal", so when Sophia testifies against them, well, it is not a positive outcome at the trial.
Malcolm and Shorty are sentenced to eight-to-ten years, in separate prisons.
Even though this is 1946, Charlestown State Prison might as well be set in the Middle Ages of torture chambers.
After serving 2 years at Charlestown, Malcolm is transferred to Norfolk Prison Colony - where Shorty has been serving his term.
Compared to Charlestown, Norfolk is a "country club" setting ---
In 1950, Malcolm goes back to Charlestown to "fight" for those still there.
This is a very disturbing look at what occurred in many prisons across the USA.
Ilyasah's writing is excellent, considering who and what she wrote about.
In 1946 Malcolm and his friend, Malcolm "Shorty" Jarvis have been convicted of grand larceny, breaking and entering, possession of stolen property and firearms possession.
The two had been convinced by Malcolm' white girlfriend, Sophia and her friend to rob houses in "wealthy" white neighborhoods outside of Boston.
Both Malcolm and Shorty believe that their girlfriends will testify on their behalf.
Remember this is in 1946, LONG before mixed couples were "legal", so when Sophia testifies against them, well, it is not a positive outcome at the trial.
Malcolm and Shorty are sentenced to eight-to-ten years, in separate prisons.
Even though this is 1946, Charlestown State Prison might as well be set in the Middle Ages of torture chambers.
After serving 2 years at Charlestown, Malcolm is transferred to Norfolk Prison Colony - where Shorty has been serving his term.
Compared to Charlestown, Norfolk is a "country club" setting ---
In 1950, Malcolm goes back to Charlestown to "fight" for those still there.
This is a very disturbing look at what occurred in many prisons across the USA.
Ilyasah's writing is excellent, considering who and what she wrote about.
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