autobiography of Bejamin Franklin vs "Learning to Read" by Malcolm X

The excerpts I read from the Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin and the Autobiography of Malcolm X are two narratives involving the evolution of one’s ability to read and write.  Although the differences between these two narratives jump out at you pretty quickly, I see more similarities than differences in the writings.  Both had a love for reading, although Benjamin possessed a raw talent in grammar from a young age, and received a quality education. Malcolm basically taught himself how to read, as he described as almost learning a new language. Malcolm X also wrote in a simple manner and made it pretty clear that reading did not come natural, but he became a great reader through practice and repetition. I found Benjamin's writings hard to follow simply because it is so old in style; there were also a few words I had to look up just to make sure I understood their meanings. His writing may seem to be overly stylish and hard to understand, but in general he used what seemed to be to me a simple way of writing for back in the day.  Malcolm X and Benjamin Franklin pursued books with an obsession, they also shared studying styles: emulating more successful writers/readers and reading everything they could get their hands on regardless of its contents. One glaring difference between the two narratives would not involve their writing styles, but involving their history.  Benjamin did not receive the same positive reinforcement that Malcolm did. The prison glorified Malcolm X, reading was a way to pass time and educate one’s self. Malcolm succeeded in educating himself, and separating himself from the stereotype of the street thug.  Benjamin was expected to read and write, but his father used criticism as a way to improve Benjamin’s skills. Benjamin struggled to find his place in life, and carried the burden of expectation.