Parents' Guide to

Malcolm X: A Fire Burning Brightly

By Jennifer Gennari, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 8+

Complex issues make this best for older kids.

Book Walter Dean Myers Biography 2000
Malcolm X: A Fire Burning Brightly Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

Community Reviews

See all

There aren't any parent reviews yet. Be the first to review this title.

What's the Story?

There's no such thing as a nonviolent revolution! begins this biography of Malcolm X, launching right into his controversial speeches from the 1950s. The narrative describes his whole life without softening any of the details. The lengthy text, complex issues, and impressionistic paintings make this picture book most appropriate for kids at least nine years old.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

Malcolm X is often neglected by elementary schools, as the curriculum focuses on King; in that sense, this visually enticing picture book takes an important step in acknowledging Malcolm’s message. Some readers may not agree with the civil rights leader's message, because at one time he was a thief and an advocate of violence, and by all accounts a hot-tempered man. However, the targeted age group will learn that people can change.

It's admirable that Walter Dean Myers does not soften any aspect of Malcolm X's life and words. Because of the straightforward treatment, this picture book is clearly aimed at kids in third grade and up. Quotes from Malcolm run along the bottom of many pages, enriching the narrative. Leonard Jenkins' illustrations are provocative -- an interesting mix of realistic images of Malcolm against abstract backgrounds and foregrounds.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Malcolm X changed over the course of his life. What beliefs stayed constant? What beliefs changed? Do you think he was more effective or less effective as a leader and inspiration later in his life? Parents also can talk about Malcolm X in comparison with other civil rights leaders, like Martin Luther King Jr.

Book Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate