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Malcolm X is a powerful voice in American history. In his short lifetime he went through several significant shifts in his lifestyle and philosophy. The hardships that Malcolm endures as a child led to his fascination with life in the fast lane, wher .. read more

Malcolm X is a powerful voice in American history. In his short lifetime he went through several significant shifts in his lifestyle and philosophy. The hardships that Malcolm endures as a child led to his fascination with life in the fast lane, where he used his wits as a hustler and thief. However, the tenacity and intellect of Malcolm X the human being propelled him from his prison cell to the extraordinary stature with which the world recognizes him today.

The Autobiography of Malcolm X is an opportunity to observe many examples of human strengths. The children of the Little family survived in spite of the death of their father and institutionalization of their mother. Ella, the sister in Boston, tried to keep the connection to her less fortunate relatives by providing them with new starts. As a hustler, Malcolm continued to feel a sense of protectiveness for his younger brother. As an inmate, Malcolm realized the critical importance of an education and became a literal sponge for knowledge. Malcolm’s family did not give up on him when he went to prison but instead rallied to support him by bringing hope through Islam.

Among the points of interest regarding this book are its original printing date, its co-author, and the man about whom the book is written. The first printing of The Autobiography of Malcolm X dates back to 1964, thirty years ago. Life in America has changed dramatically in many ways and, in others it has unfortunately remained pretty constant. When Malcolm X told his story to Alex Haley, no one could have possibly imagined that Alex Haley would become one of the most famous authors of all time with the publication and subsequent televising of Roots. The life of Malcolm X continues to be a source of both controversy and awe to people around the globe as the struggle for human rights and equality remains an issue. Before your students begin the book, have them discuss what they have already heard and know about the life of Malcolm X. Ask them to write down their impressions about how he lived, what he stood for, the changes he underwent in philosophy, how he dies, and the manner in which people continue to keep his memory alive. read less