Lambeth (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Lambeth Council pays tribute to celebrated author Alex Wheatle, who passed away after battling prostate cancer, leaving a lasting legacy in the literary world.
Alex was a gifted writer who used his life experiences to inform his writing and activism. He rose to prominence as a spokesperson for Lambeth residents and the Black community at large.
His children’s books and the critically acclaimed Crongton series, which young people all over the world read and like, are only two examples of his vast legacy.
Throughout his career, he also put a lot of effort into supporting youth-oriented educational programs.
Alex’s courageous efforts to denounce injustices, such as the Windrush scam, will also live on in his memory.
He bravely spoke up about the systemic violence he and many others endured, particularly at the council-run Shirley Oaks children’s home, after experiencing abuse while in Lambeth’s care system.
Lambeth Council’s Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, Cllr Donatus Anyanwu, said:
“It is devastating to hear of the loss of Alex Wheatle. He was a giant of storytelling and a formidable and authentic voice for his community.
Alex was a hugely successful, trailblazing author who never forgot where he came from. He remained a campaigner to the end – raising awareness of prostate cancer, particularly among Black men, and urging the government to introduce a prostate cancer screening programme.
He will be sorely missed; we offer our sincere condolences to all Alex’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Wheatle’s artistic career was sparked by the Brixton riots. His life and legacy have subsequently revolved around literature, which he found a voice and a purpose for thanks to his experiences during this time.
Wheatle became a champion for cancer awareness after receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis in 2023, focusing on the increased risk that Black men experience. He promoted early screening and diagnosis in collaboration with Prostate Cancer UK.
During Black History Month, Alex Wheatle visited Brixton Library to discuss his well-reviewed memoir, Sufferah, among other appearances.
The book described how, after an abusive upbringing, music became his savior.
Alex had no idea of his Jamaican ancestry or family history growing up after being abandoned as a baby in the British care system.
Reggae later became his lifeline during his turbulent adolescence, the difficulties of being a young Black man in Britain in the 1980s, and his incarceration for demonstrating against institutional racism and police brutality.
The BBC series “Small Axe,” which was directed by Oscar-winning Steve McQueen, also depicted Alex’s childhood.
What impact did Alex Wheatle’s experiences in the Brixton riots have on his writing?
Wheatle received a four-month prison sentence for his role in the Brixton riots. His roommate introduced him to well-known writers like John Steinbeck, C.L.R. James, Richard Wright, and Chester Himes at this period. His interest in literature was ignited by this exposure, which also motivated him to start writing.
Wheatle’s 1999 debut novel, “Brixton Rock,” reflects his early background, particularly his involvement in the Brixton riots. His personal past informs the novel’s exploration of identity, community, and social justice.
Wheatle’s thematic focus on social justice, community resilience, and the difficulties experienced by Black British communities was influenced by the riots and their aftermath. These issues are frequently explored in his work, which offers compelling accounts of life in modern-day Britain.