Malcolm X
By the time I got to the penitentiary, I’d already spent a year in solitary confinement. Some people might say that spending a year in solitary could drive a person stir crazy. I’m thankful to Officer Wilson for bringing several books to me. Those books helped me to restore confidence, giving me a plan that would guide me through the decades I’d serve in prison. Through reading, I could learn, and by learning, I could liberate myself, regardless of what choices administrators made. Consider the following book report: The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Why I Chose to Reading The Autobiography of Malcolm X
By the time I got to the penitentiary, I had already spent a year in solitary confinement. That period of isolation could have been overwhelming, but thanks to Officer Wilson bringing me books, I discovered a sense of purpose and a pathway forward. Those books helped me rebuild my confidence and develop a plan to guide me through the decades I would spend in prison. Reading allowed me to learn, and learning became a form of liberation.
When I first entered the penitentiary, I sought books that illustrated how others had used time in prison to prepare for success. I came across The Autobiography of Malcolm X and immediately gravitated toward his story. Malcolm X’s transformation from a man with no direction to a self-educated leader resonated with me deeply. His ability to use the time he spent incarcerated to reinvent himself was a model I knew I could follow.
What I Learned from Reading The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Malcolm X taught me that prison could be a place of transformation. One of his greatest lessons was the importance of building a vocabulary. Through his story, I realized that words are power—they allow us to think more critically, express ourselves clearly, and connect with others effectively. For Malcolm, copying words from a dictionary in his cell was more than just a way to pass the time; it was a way to rebuild himself from the inside out.
I also learned about the power of curiosity and relentless pursuit of knowledge. Malcolm X didn’t limit his reading to one subject; he devoured books on history, philosophy, religion, and politics. This broad base of knowledge not only gave him confidence but also prepared him to engage in meaningful dialogue and debate, eventually becoming a powerful orator and leader.
Another profound lesson was the importance of self-discipline and focus. Malcolm X used his time in prison with singular determination. He showed me that regardless of external circumstances, internal discipline could pave the way to success. By making a conscious decision to spend time learning and improving himself, he turned prison—a place designed to limit him—into a classroom for his personal and intellectual growth.
Finally, I learned the importance of transformation as a continuous process. Even after his release, Malcolm X evolved, adapting to new experiences and insights. His willingness to reflect, question, and grow taught me that personal development is not a one-time effort but a lifelong journey.
How Reading The Autobiography of Malcolm X Contributes to My Work
Malcolm X’s story reinforced my belief that people can rise above their circumstances through intentional effort and preparation. His transformation showed that regardless of past decisions or current obstacles, anyone can invest time to develop new skills and open doors to opportunities. His example inspired me to write and share my own journey, with the hope of helping others see their potential.
In my work, I encourage others—especially those in prison—to embrace education as a tool for empowerment. Like Malcolm X, I believe that the process of self-improvement begins with small, deliberate steps: picking up a book, expanding vocabulary, or writing about personal experiences. Each step builds confidence, restores dignity, and creates momentum toward a brighter future.
Reading about Malcolm X also affirmed the importance of using one’s voice to create change. Through his speeches and writing, he reached millions, sharing lessons from his own struggles and triumphs. His legacy reminds me that the work I do—writing, teaching, and advocating—has the potential to inspire others to rewrite their own stories.
Self-Directed Question for Reflection
Malcolm X used his time in prison to transform himself into a leader and thinker who inspired millions. What steps can you take today, no matter your current circumstances, to begin building the skills and knowledge that will prepare you for success tomorrow?
