55 pages • 1 hour read
The Three Mothers: How the Mothers of Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and James Baldwin Shaped a Nation
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Book Brief
288
Biography • Nonfiction
United States • 20th century
2021
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Three Mothers by Anna Malaika Tubbs is a nonfiction biography exploring the lives of Alberta King, Louise Little, and Berdis Baldwin, whose roles in shaping the identities and activism of Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and James Baldwin are highlighted. Tubbs emphasizes their influence, the intersectional oppression they faced, and the erasure of Black women’s histories. Topics include racism, racial violence, sexual violence, and the history of enslavement.
Informative
Inspirational
Emotional
Contemplative
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
10,140 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
Anna Malaika Tubbs' The Three Mothers generally receives praise for its compelling exploration of the lives of the mothers of Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and James Baldwin. Critics commend its depth and narrative style, although some feel it occasionally lacks analytical rigor. Overall, it is heralded as a valuable tribute to these often overlooked women.
Who Should Read The Three Mothers?
A reader who would enjoy The Three Mothers by Anna Malaika Tubbs is likely interested in African American history, female empowerment, and social justice. Comparable to readers of Becoming by Michelle Obama and Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly, they appreciate biographies that highlight influential, yet often overlooked, women's stories.
10,140 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Emma Berdis Baldwin
Emma Berdis Baldwin
The mother of author James Baldwin, depicted as a nurturing and supportive figure who navigated personal challenges while influencing her son's development and perspective on racial injustice.
Alberta Williams King
Alberta Williams King
The mother of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., portrayed as an influential figure in her son's life through her commitment to education, faith, and activism within her community.
Louise Little
Louise Little
The mother of civil rights activist Malcolm X, known for her advocacy and resilience in the face of racial violence and institutional challenges, impacting Malcolm X's views and activism.
James Baldwin
James Baldwin
A celebrated author and civil rights activist, whose upbringing and relationship with his mother, Berdis Baldwin, contributed significantly to his literary voice and focus on social justice.
Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr.
A central figure in the American civil rights movement, influenced by his mother, Alberta King's values and teachings, becoming a leader in the struggle for racial equality and justice.
Malcolm X
Malcolm X
A civil rights leader known for his work with the Nation of Islam and later, advocating for Black nationalism and independence, shaped by the experiences and teachings of his mother, Louise Little.
288
Biography • Nonfiction
United States • 20th century
2021
Adult
18+ years
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