Malcolm Lives! Is one of the best biographies I have ever read, including those designed for adults. The book covers Malcolm's life, from before he is even born, to the after-effects of his life; truly an in-depth coverage of his life. It is written in such a way that you feel like you are viewing his life in real-time, and like you really know him by the end. Malcolm Lives! Gives historical context around the times and events in the book to help readers really understand what Malcolm was going through, dealing with, and experiencing. Along with being an amazing biography, this book is also an incredible introduction to the multifaceted Civil Rights Movement (Human Rights Movement).
I absolutely loved the documents and photos within the book. My poor eyes would have loved a transcribed version to go beside the letters for easier reading, but it added a lot of depth to the book to be able to see Malcolm’s and others actual handwriting and wording. It made everything feel more real.
The sentence structure was a little difficult for me to follow as it starts and stops; but, Dr. Ibram X. Kendi said he specifically chose this model to reflect the way Malcolm X spoke and wrote, which I greatly appreciate.
I wasn’t sure what to expect going into this book, and am left completely blown away, and with a strong urge to devour everything by Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, and anything about Malcolm X.