Malcolm X's "Learning to Read"

First of all, his story is amazing. While others may have given up because it was hard, Malcolm X persevered and taught himself to read. I personally feel that his attitude is a rare thing to see today. As it pertains to education especially. I feel that passion and desire to learn is the exception and not the rule. That's not to say that there aren't students out there who don't want to learn. Look around at OC and you'll see all the Running Start students, who clearly worked their butts off to get to where they are and are still working hard. Or those who are continuing their education, having graduated high-school many years ago. Not to exclude anyone else, because we all have our reasons for being here and we're all working hard.

In regards to how I can use this as a model for my own educational narrative, Malcolm X's "Learning to Read" is a great example. The tone of his paper is casual. It's almost as if you're having a conversation with him. Despite having that feeling, his paper is a testament to the things he learned in his time in prison. His vocabulary is broad and rich. I found myself wanting to read more, disappointed that there were only 3 pages. His paper accomplishes what it intends to. It is a great example of an educational narrative in that I can clearly picture him sitting in his cell, copying out words from the dictionary as well as sitting in the dim light from the hallway, reading after lights out.