Bound To Stay Bound

Other - 04/21/2025 Kendi (Stamped) delivers an expansive and immersive biography of human rights activist Malcolm X (1925-1965), which traces the figure’s life from his birth in Omaha, Neb., to his assassination in New York City. "Before one can teach what’s right for humans, one must learn what is right," the author states in an introduction using plain, conversational text. Subsequent chapters take on a propulsive cadence that chronicles critical events in Malcolm’s life, including his father’s death, ruled an accident by police, though Malcolm’s mother believed her husband was murdered by Klansmen. Through a series of succinct yet richly detailed snapshots that include Malcolm’s experience hustling in 1940s Boston as well as his incarceration for burglary in 1946, Kendi relays the revolutionary’s relationship with the Nation of Islam’s teachings and with the organization’s religious leader Elijah Muhammad. The volume straightforwardly depicts the pair’s antagonism and parallel journeys as Malcolm works to uncover Muhammad’s corrupt teachings while defending and inspiring Black Americans during the civil rights era. Connecting the activist’s life events-both personal and professional, in the United States and during his travels abroad-with contemporary literature, politics, and society, the narrative accessibly highlights Malcolm’s complex journey toward learning "how to stand up to what’s wrong. Even in oneself," and to achieve a better understanding of himself and the world around him. Archival documents and b&w photographs appear throughout; extensive back matter concludes. Ages 10-14. (May) - Copyright 2025

School Library Journal - 05/09/2025 Gr 7 Up—Scholar and antiracist activist Kendi brings the life and learning of Malcolm X directly to young readers in this compelling, propulsive biography. Malcolm Little, born 1925 in Omaha, NE, faced trauma and hardship from early on due to racism and white supremacy. By the time he was in eighth grade, he was hungry and angry which made him reckless and desperate. He left school for pool halls and bars, breaking laws and getting by with older friends. At 20, he landed in prison for a string of robberies. While he was incarcerated, he rediscovered his love of learning and his thirst for knowledge. It was also when he was introduced to the teachings of Elijah Muhammad, then the leader of the U.S.—based Nation of Islam. Upon release, the young man zigzagged across the U.S. gathering followers. After he became disillusioned with Muhammad's leadership, he left the Nation of Islam, but his influence continued to grow in the global fight for human rights for all. Kendi artfully draws on extensive source material to recreate conversations and elucidate the possible thoughts and feelings behind some of the behavior of his subjects. The length of the book might intimidate some readers. However, the short chapters and Kendi's frequent direct address to young people make the text feel like a conversation, with a writing style more akin to oratory than textbook. The text is made even more accessible because it is interspersed with images of typewritten letters, handwritten notes, and photographs. VERDICT This thoroughly researched, beautifully rendered portrait of a complex and pivotal figure is recommended as an essential purchase.—Jennifer Costa - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.