I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

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. I listed to the audiobook read by the beautiful voice of Maya Angelou. Beautiful and sad

This book was a glimpse into the lives of young Southern black people in the 30s and 40s. She speaks of pain, betrayal, joy, and love. She tells a story that jumps across the pages and speaks straight to the heart of every person who has endured something they didn’t deserve.

I found myself reading and re-reading her words; the magic and the power each one held entranced me.

I learned more about Maya Angelou than I ever thought possible, which wasn...read more

One of the first books I read by a black author as a teenage young woman. I finally felt seen and validated in literature because Maya herself proved that we have lives worthy of exploring and sharing. It is a book of amazing insights. A story of incredible personal resilience, perseverance, creativity in living. But mostly that we all can have hope. The message she imparts is no matter the current conditions, we can overcome and exceed expectati...read more

3 out of 5.

Beautiful writing that really puts you in the scene. I just couldn't sink myself fully into it like I expected.