Description

Guest: Dr. Ibram X. Kendi

Book Featured: Malcolm Lives (2025, Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR)

Host: Annisha Jeffries, Kidlit Advocate & creator of Reading in the Middle

Topics Covered:

• ​Why Malcolm Lives was written for middle-grade readers in Malcolm X’s centennial year
• ​How Dr. Kendi balances biography with imaginative storytelling
• ​The importance of introducing complex, courageous figures to young readers
• ​What young people today can learn from Malcolm’s legacy of transformation
• ​How educators and librarians can use this book to foster honest, empowering discussions

Lightning Round Highlights:

• ​Favorite book at age 11
• ​Dream historical conversation
• ​Writing snack of choice
• ​“Middle-grade readers are _____.”

Where to Find the Book:Available wherever books are sold. Request it at your local library or independent bookstore!

Connect with me:📚 Instagram: @reading_in_the_middle🌐 Website: readinginthemiddle.blog📧 Email: hello@readinginthemiddle.blog

🎙️ If this conversation resonated with you, please subscribe, rate, and share. Middle-grade stories are essential, and so are the readers who cherish them.