Betty Before X

Discover the inspiring childhood of Betty Shabazz, Malcolm X's wife, in this powerful middle-grade novel written by their daughter. Set in Detroit in 1945, eleven-year-old Betty tries to find her place in the world while experiencing the struggles of not feeling at home. Through church and activism, Betty finds confidence and purpose, eventually becoming the civil rights icon we know today as Dr. Betty Shabazz. Collaborating with novelist Renée Watson, Ilyasah Shabazz creates a beautiful and poignant portrait of a girl overcoming the challenges of self-acceptance and belonging that will resonate with young readers today.