The Dead Are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X by Les Payne, Tamara Payne

For many, Malcolm X is a figure of inspiration, a leader and pioneer of social justice and civil rights, whose life has been commemorated and studied extensively in films, books, and other forms of media. Les Payne’s “The Dead Are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X” is one of the most comprehensive and comprehensive biographies of Malcolm X ever written, drawing on personal interviews, oral history and other primary source material to paint a stunning portrait of this giant of history.

The book begins by exploring the early life and family of Malcolm X. It sheds light on his difficult upbringing in poverty stricken small town in Michigan, and narrates his journey to becoming the ideological leader who inspired and liberated countless people with his message of black power and self-determination. Payne takes us through Malcolm's early years, his time in prison and eventual pursuit of scholarship, religious study, and public speaking.

In the second part of the book, Payne shifts focus to discussing the rise of the Nation of Islam, the powerful religious and social movement associated with Malcolm X. He covers the controversies and leadership struggles within the Nation of Islam and details how Malcolm X evolved as a leader from the preacher to the man who eventually renounced the Nation of Islam. Payne also chronicles how Malcolm’s influence on the civil rights movement and his political activism in the 1960s, before his assassination in 1965.

“The Dead Are Arising” provides a unique point-of-view on Malcolm X. While admirable, resilient, and outspoken, Payne also provides a realistic view on Malcolm X, demonstrating how he was far from perfect. At times erratic, opportunistic, and divisive in his political efforts, Payne's book provides an objective portrayal of the man described by many as a great leader but who often found himself on the wrong side of the law, fighting for power and recognition for his people at all costs.

Ultimately, Payne’s “The Dead Are Arising” is an essential read for striving to gain a more complete understanding of one of the most influential figures of the 20th century. Payne’s book is a must-read for academics, enthusiasts and supporters alike, collecting primary source material and beautiful prose to tell the story of Malcolm X. It discusses his inner-struggles, issues and contradictions while demonstrating the lasting impact that Malcolm X had on the civil rights movement, black power and the struggle against racial injustice still felt in America today.