Here is a book as joyous and painful, as mysterious and memorable, as childhood itself. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings captures the longing of lonely children, the brute insult of bigotry, and the wonder of words that can make the world right. Maya Angelou’s debut memoir is a modern American classic beloved worldwide. Sent by their mother to live with their devout, self-sufficient grandmother … self-sufficient grandmother in a small Southern town, Maya and her brother, Bailey, endure the ache of abandonment and the prejudice of the local “powhitetrash.” At eight years old and back at her mother’s side in St. Louis, Maya is attacked by a man many times her age—and has to live with the consequences for a lifetime. Years later, in San Francisco, Maya learns that love for herself, the kindness of others, her own strong spirit, and the ideas of great authors (“I met and fell in love with William Shakespeare”) will allow her to be free instead of imprisoned.
Poetic and powerful, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings will touch hearts and change minds for as long as people read.
“I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings liberates the reader into life simply because Maya Angelou confronts her own life with such a moving wonder, such a luminous dignity.”—James Baldwin
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Loved this memoir of Maya Angelou’s growing up years and how she overcame adversity.
Best book I have ever read
Great Read where it all began for the Awesome Maya Angelou. I couldn’t put it down. Its a childhood life story told with complete honesty
Would recommend all of Maya Angelou’s autobiographical books. What a varied and interesting life she lived.
Amazing!
I read this book in junior high school. Great autobiography of a well lived life.
Wonderful book on how one person rose against a tragic beginning.
My favorite book ever!
I can relate to this book so much. Great read!
Such a wonderful read. Tragic life experiences lead to determination and heart. If only I could have met her…
What a great read! Love her writings.
This is an autobiography of Maya Angelou’s childhood, growing up when African Americans had few if any rights. It is sad, in its realism, but the reader gains new insight into what life was like for her and her family.
A must-read classic.
important for perspective
Incredible book!
See and feel the world from another perspective, a beautiful book.
Arkansas authors rock, i said it before.
I needed this to better understand my world.
Excellent book! Should be required reading!
Very interesting, excellent read!