"Revolutionary Suicide" by Huey P. Newton is a memoir detailing the struggles and experiences of the author before and during the creation of the Black Panther Party. It portrays Newton as a committed revolutionary, focused on action and results, despite facing insurmountable circumstances. The narrative delves into his intellectual growth, from self-teaching himself to read using Plato's works to developing a deep understanding of revolutionary ideologies like Marxism and Maoism.

Newton's writing style captivates readers through a candid account of his life, showcasing his vulnerability and honesty. provides a nuanced perspective on Newton's journey, from his upbringing in a loving yet resource-strained family to his role as a leader in the Black Panther Party. The narrative not only highlights Newton's personal growth but also sheds light on the socio-political climate of the time, making it an engaging and enlightening read.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is straightforward and candid, presenting personal experiences and insights without unnecessary complexity.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative centers around the author's early life, the founding of the Black Panther Party, and his legal battles, offering insight into his personal struggles and the ideology behind the movement.

Setting:

The setting encompasses the historical and social context of the United States during the civil rights movement, particularly in Oakland.

Pacing:

The pacing is predominantly engaging but can slow with the introduction of dense terminology and concepts.

Both of my parents were born in the Deep South, my father in Alabama, my mother in Louisiana. In the mid-thirties, their families migrated to Arkansas, where my parents met and married. They were very...

Genres:

autobiography

memoir

political manifesto

Topics:

racism

black empowerment

civil rights movement

the black panther party

Notes:

Revolutionary Suicide is an autobiography of Huey P. Newton, co-founder of the Black Panther Party.

The book provides insight into Newton's upbringing as a Black person in America.

Newton discusses the foundations and history of the Black Panther Party in detail.

His writing style is straightforward, avoiding lengthy rants and ego-driven narratives.

He reflects on both his flaws and successes as a leader of the party.

Despite a low IQ score, Newton was highly intelligent and self-taught, reading works like Plato.

The book highlights his dedication to educating and empowering Black communities.

Newton emphasizes the importance of community self-defense against police brutality.

He was not afraid to admit his mistakes and critique his own actions within the party.

His experiences have significant relevance to discussions about race and police interactions today.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for Revolutionary Suicide include themes of racism, violence, police brutality, and incarceration.

From The Publisher:

The searing, visionary memoir of founding Black Panther Huey P. Newton, in a dazzling graphic package

Tracing the birth of a revolutionary, Huey P. Newton's famous and oft-quoted autobiography is as much a manifesto as a portrait of the inner circle of America's Black Panther Party. From Newton's impoverished childhood on the streets of Oakland to his adolescence and struggles with the system, from his role in the Black Panthers to his solitary confinement in the Alameda County Jail, Revolutionary Suicide is unrepentant and thought-provoking in its portrayal of inspired radicalism.

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About the Author:

Born the son of a Baptist minister in 1942 in Monroe, Louisiana, Huey P. Newton moved to Oakland, California, with his family at the age of three. Although functionally illiterate upon graduating from high school, he taught himself to read…

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