53 pages • 1 hour read
Ilyasah Shabazz, Renée WatsonBetty Before X
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2018A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Betty Before X by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renée Watson explores the preteen years of Betty Sanders, who becomes known as Betty Shabazz and Betty X. Set between 1934-1940, the story follows Betty's life from living with various family members to joining the Housewives’ League in Detroit where she faces racial discrimination and starts her journey in activism, exploring themes of love, resilience, and personal growth. This story depicts scenes of racial discrimination and racist violence.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Betty Before X by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renée Watson skillfully explores Betty Shabazz's formative years, capturing her resilience and activism. The narrative engages young readers and offers historical insight, yet some find the pacing uneven. Overall, the book is lauded for its educational value and inspirational themes.
Who Should Read Betty Before X?
Readers who appreciate Betty Before X by Ilyasah Shabazz and Renée Watson are often middle-grade students with an interest in historical fiction, social justice, and African American history. Similar audiences would enjoy One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia and Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson.
RecommendedReading Age
10-14yearsLexile Level
810LBook Details
Historical Fiction
African American Literature
Children's Literature
Social Justice
Race / Racism
History: World
Relationships: Family
Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance
Emotions/Behavior: Grief