For his summer staff pick, Luan decided to read the autobiography of Malcolm X because it is a powerful lesson on growth that everyone can learn from.
Luan Gashi, Programs and Communications Intern
The Autobiography of Malcolm X as told to Alex Haley
Why did you pick this book?
Malcolm X is one of the most influential individuals in America, if not the world. His autobiography is a powerful lesson on growth that everyone can learn from, no matter who you are or where you come from.
What is your favorite quote from this book? Why?
“Why am I as I am? To understand that of any person, his whole life, from birth must be reviewed. All of our experiences fuse into our personality. Everything that ever happened to us is an ingredient.”
To tell any story and gain proper insight, you have to start from the beginning. Malcolm X valued the importance of experience, understanding, and growth, as these were significant lessons he learned throughout his life. And like Malcolm X says, all of our experiences make us who we are.
What is your favorite memory of summer reading growing up – do you have an anecdote to share?
There would be a huge book-selling event and I would beg my mom for money for books about dragons and magicians and things I was interested in at the time that added to my love for reading. She always encouraged my brothers and I to read as much as possible and these book fairs were great opportunities for us because they made wanting to read fun and not another task.
What does literacy mean to you – why is it important?
Learning how to read and write is important for your personal growth as an individual. I believe the more you read, the more you know, and knowledge is power, so books are powerful.
As the summer heats up, we’ve been busy reading – check out our staff picks:
Arifa – Milk and Honey
Gohar- The Hundred Year Walk
Shellyn – Little Gold Book of Yes!
Emily – An American Marriage
David- Happy Dreams
Aarushi – The Handmaid’s Tale
Through Books of Their Own, Literacy Partners provides brand new books to our students and their families. Share in the joy of providing home libraries – give the gift of reading, and donate to Literacy Partners today.