The novels being used for the adaptations highlight pivotal moments in Malcolm X’s life, from his childhood to his imprisonment. The novel descriptions, per Variety, read, “X: A Novel” follows Malcolm’s life from his childhood — including his father being lynched and his mother being institutionalized against her will — up to his imprisonment at age twenty.

“The Awakening of Malcolm X” picks up during his time in prison when he decided to join the Nation of Islam, ultimately emerging from incarceration as Malcolm X.”

Shabazz has also written “Growing Up X,” “Malcolm Little: The Boy Who Grew Up to Become Malcolm X” (a children’s book) and “Betty Before X.”

Shabazz is the current co-chair of The Malcolm X & Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center in Harlem, New York.