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Malcolm X: The Great Photographs

Name: Malcolm X: The Great Photographs
Author: Thulani Davis, Howard Chapnick
ISBN: 9781556703171

by Thulani Davis, Howard Chapnick

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Overview

The face of Malcolm X (1925-1965) has become a cultural icon. Depending on who is looking, his image conjures up various men: moral leader, black separatist leader, Black Muslim teacher, radical leader, pan-Africanist leader, pioneer in the spread of orthodox Islam. Malcolm X: The Great Photographs is an extensively researched collection of historical photographs of Malcolm X beginning with his childhood and focusing on the critical years 1959 to 1965, when he was in the public eye. The photographs, arranged chronologically, tell the story of Malcolm's mature life. Acclaimed writer Thulani Davis narrates these events and includes in her story the voices of activists whose lives were changed by contact with him. In an essay of astonishing breadth, Davis examines Malcolm's ideas and myths to find out why popular culture has so energetically laid claim to his image. Pictures from many of the great photographers of the time - including Gordon Parks, Eve Arnold, and Henri Cartier-Bresson - document Malcolm X's work as a teacher, militant, orator, and family man. A detailed chronology shows Malcolm's life set against the backdrop of U.S. and international political events, especially the independence of African nations. Through its pictures and text, Malcolm X: The Great Photographs offers unparalleled insight into the life of a major historical figure whose ideas and inspiration challenge a new generation.

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Editorials

Library Journal

This pictorial chronology of the life and work of Malcolm X spans the years from the 1919 marriage of his parents to 1966 sentencing of three men convicted of his murder. It is virtually impossible to capture the life and legacy of such a resplendent and mystifying individual in any one book, but this beautiful volume attempts to do just that and does it well. In the text, novelist Davis ( 1959 , Grove Weidenfeld, 1992 ), doesn't merely retell the story of Malcolm's life but tries to describe how phenomenal the man himself was. A picture speaks a thousand words, and this compilation of photographs from such noted photographers as Gordon Parks and Henri Cartier-Bresson speaks volumes about this man whose ``face has become an omnipresent icon, a silent image attracting people.'' Davis's in-depth captions provide background and surrounding stories, although there are no printed records available for some of the events photographed. For those who already admire Malcolm X, this celebratory photo essay brings him to life; for those who still do not understand him, it will provide inspirational insights. Highly recommended for all collections.-- Corinne Nelson, ``Library Journal''

Booknews

Black and white photographs of Malcolm X during his public career, 1960-65, by some of the best known photographers. Includes a chronology and an essay on his life and ideas. No index. Distributed by Workman. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)