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a Novel
Feb 27, 2016SiempreSara rated this title 3.5 out of 5 stars
I really liked the historical setting, Boston and Harlem in the 30s and 40s. The straightforward narration didn't draw me in right away, but once Malcolm got to the city and started working at jazz clubs, buying zoot suits and getting caught up in small-time hustling, I was fascinated. I can't remember reading much previously about this time period from the point of view of African-Americans in the city. I think it would be really interesting to modern city kids, to compare their experiences with Malcolm's. The music and the styles are different, but they'd probably recognize a lot. I would have liked the pace to be a little slower, and get to know more of the side characters who seemed intriguing, but I never felt like I fully got to know them. It makes sense that events would move pretty briskly to fit in the real stories of Malcolm's youth. Others would probably appreciate the quick pace, which also manages to fit in the back story of his childhood. There are also a good number of interesting and relevant details; for example, the "conk" hairstyle that Malcolm X would later be critical of. Someone who went on to learn more about Malcolm X after reading this would probably uncover even more depth and similar connections.