Growing Up X

A Memoir by the Daughter of Malcolm X

By: Ilyasah Shabazz

Narrated by: Ilyasah Shabazz

Length: 7 hrs and 52 mins

Publisher's summary

February 21, 1965: Malcolm X is assassinated in Harlem’s Audubon Ballroom.

June 23, 1997: After surviving for a remarkable 22 days, his widow, Betty Shabazz, dies of burns suffered in a fire.

In the years between, their six daughters reach adulthood, forged by the memory of their parents’ love, the meaning of their cause, and the power of their faith. Now, at long last, one of them has recorded that tumultuous journey in an unforgettable memoir: Growing Up X.

Born in 1962, Ilyasah was the middle child, a rambunctious live wire who fought for - and won - attention in an all-female household. She carried on the legacy of a renowned father and indomitable mother while navigating childhood and, along the way, learning to do the hustle. She was a different color from other kids at camp and yet, years later as a young woman, was not radical enough for her college classmates. Her story is, sbove all else, a tribute to a mother of almost unimaginable forbearance, a woman who, “from that day at the Audubon when she heard the shots and threw her body on [ours, never] stopped shielding her children.”

©2002 Ilyasah Shabazz (P)2020 Audible, Inc.

Superbably Read

Loved the powerful messages and soothing narration. Recommended read aquainting the reader with The Man

allahu ahkbar!

great book by my hero el Haj Malik al Shabazz 👏 very interesting book! Malcom is proud in heaven!

Really understanding what the family had to go through after what happened

This book was such an eye-opener. It really made me feel like I got a true inside. Look of Malcolm’s family not just what he stood for, and how his wife stood strong to make sure her children was truly protected.

We have been waiting for this

If you are interested in what happened to Malcolm X's family after his assassination, this is a must-read. Betty Shabazz never wrote a biography, so Ilyasah fills this vital role in providing a glimpse of how Malcolm X's legacy continues. A large portion of this book revolves around Betty Shabazz. Ilyasah writes in an authentic voice, so you get an idea of her personality, and she does not feel the need to take on the mission of her father, which you cannot help but respect. If the reader/listener is patient, there is a lot of new, never written before information in this book. I believe there is still a lot of information that can still be written about, so I hope Ilyasah and/or other family members continue to build and add on to the legacy by producing another book. I will be here to help and support you in any way.

One of the best books I've read!

Loved it and learned alot about the daughter of the man I admire so dearly. Listening to the narrated version really captured the essence of her story and I felt as if I was sitting next to Ilyasah simply having a conversation about life. I was really impressed with the focus of the story as one would think she'd discuss topics specific to her father Malcolm X. This is the story I wish others would gravitate towards because it is rich with history but sheds light on the love a mother (RIH Dr. Betty Shabazz) has for her children and blessings of seeing grow.

A great book and insight into the legacy of Malcom

His daughter gives you and inside and personal look at growing up after the death of our Brother Malcolm X . She takes you on a journey both good and bad. You also feel the struggles of Dr Betty Shabazz.

A great listen

I found this audiobook to be a great listen. Hearing first hand form the child of the great Malcom and Betty is truly a unforgettably entertaining and informative experience.

Amazing Insight

Absolutely loved this book! Ilyasah told her story of her life struggles and accomplishments being raised by her father Malcolm X (Before his assassination) and her Mother, Betty Shabazz.

Dr Betty Shabazz is a feminist icon

Ilyasah tells us about her mother’s life after her father’s assassination. It is an important story that needs to be told. Dr. Betty Shabazz was a true help-mate to Malcolm X and is a feminist icon.

My first audible

This was a very good book. Highly recommend it. I learned a lot from it.