Maya Angelou Literature: Literary Works

Learn more about Maya Angelou, who overcame a troubled childhood marked by racism, abandonment, and violence to become one of America's most beloved writers.

This books offers a look at the life of Maya Angelou and her myriad interests and accomplishments. It is part tribute, part scrapbook, capturing Angelou at home, at work, and in the public eye.

Sent by their mother to live with their devout, 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 about 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”) which allow her to be free instead of imprisoned. Poetic and powerful, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is a modern American classic that will touch hearts and change minds for as long as people read.

This collection contains all of Maya Angelou's published poetry: Just Give Me A Cool Drink of Water 'fore I Die (1971); Oh Pray My Wings Are Gonna Fit Me Well (1975); And Still I Rise (1978); Shaker, Why Don't You Sing? (1983); I Shall Not Be Moved (1990); and On the Pulse of Morning (1993), a poem written for President Bill Clinton's inauguration.

In this inspiring poem, Maya Angelou celebrates the courage of the human spirit over the harshest of obstacles. An ode to the power that resides in us all to overcome the most difficult circumstances, this poem is truly an inspiration and affirmation of the faith that restores and nourishes the soul. Entwined with the vivid paintings of Diego Rivera, the renowned Mexican artist, Angelou's words paint a portrait of the amazing human spirit, its quiet dignity, and pools of strength and courage.

First read by Maya Angelou at the 50th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, this wise and moving poem will inspire readers with its memorable message of hope for humanity.

Also, available electronically via the Alexander Street Press Electronic Collection. Local access for all registered users. Remote access only for NSU and Broward users.

This book is the continuation of the bestselling Wouldn't Take Nothing for My Journey Now. In her unique, spellbinding way, she re-creates intimate personal experiences and gives us her wisdom on a wide variety of subjects. She tells us how a house can both hurt its occupants and heal them. She talks about Africa. She gives us a profile of Oprah. She enlightens us about age and sexuality. She confesses to the problems fame brings and shares with us the indelible lessons she has learned about rage and violence.

This book chronicles the changes in Maya Angelou's life as she enters the hub of activity that is New York. There, at the Harlem Writers Guild, she rededicates herself to writing, and finds love at an unexpected moment. Reflecting on her many roles--from northern coordinator of Martin Luther King's history-making quest to mother of a rebellious teenage son--Angelou eloquently speaks to an awareness of the heart within us all.

The moving and beautiful autobiography of a talented black woman. . . . I have no words for this achievement, but I know that not since the days of my childhood . . . have I found myself so moved . . . Her portrait is a Biblical study of life in the midst of death.--James Baldwin.

A guide to the richly diverse and enduring tradition of southern women's literature.

Each Volume, Covering Three To Six Poems, Includes: - User's guide- Editor's note and introduction by Harold Bloom- A comprehensive biography of the poet- Detailed thematic analysis of each poem- Extracts from major critical essays that discuss important aspects of each poem- A complete bibliography of the writer's poetic works- A list of critical works about the poet and his works- An index of themes and ideas in the author's work