Product Description
For the first time, the complete collection of Maya Angelou's published poems-including "On the Pulse of Morning"-in a permanent collectible, handsome hardcover edition.Amazon.com Review
Brought together for the first time here are all of MayaAngelou's published poems -- including "On the Pulse of Morning," herinaugural poem -- in a handsome hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (43)

one of the most amazing poets ever lived
I START TO BE FAMILIAR WITH MAYA ANGELOU WORKS FROM THE POEMS SHE WROTE FOR THE MOVIE (POETIC JUSTICE), AND THIS YEAR I FINALLY MAKE A ONE STEP FORWARD AND ORDERED THE COMPLETE WORKS OF HER, ALSO BECAUSE THE BOOK SOMEHOW REMINDS ME OF TUPAC SHAKUR'S GREAT PERFORMANCE IN THE MOVIE (POETIC JUSTICE)... IT'S A MUST BUY, BELIEVE ME.

You can't read just one; you must read them all.
Imagine. . .the heat and humidity are 96 degrees.There is not even a hint of a breeze and the sun continues to glare down upon the land.No one is moving this afternoon.You are sitting in a white, rattan chair on the veranda, sipping sweet tea and lazily fanning yourself with a magazine.There is some shade from the gargantuan, old magnolia tree in the front yard and the smell of those flowers are as sweet as the tea.In your lap is a copy of "The Complete Collected Poems of Maya Angelou".

Some poems make you gently chuckle, some make you sad, all make you think.But, as you read Dr. Angelou's work, you feel safe in her bossom.Women will find comfort in the fact that now they know that another person understands all the intracacies of the life of a woman.Men who are game to enter this world and try to understand, should also explore her words.

Read, absorb, feel, be inspired by Dr. Maya Angelou's poetry.

Linda Langan Powell, author, "The Old Cypress Tree".

Treasured Possession for Angelou Fans
The themes in Maya Angelou's poems range from pain to pleasure, from love to loss, and from freedom to oppression.The Complete Collected Poems of Maya Angelou allows the reader to travel down this road of emotions with Angelou and see straight into the soul of the woman who is considered one of America's greatest living poets.However, this book is not for those who are "sitting on the fence" about Angelou's work.Instead, this book will not only be loved by those who already love Angelou's poetry, but will prove to be a treasured possession.The collection offers the reader Angelou's famous poems such as "Still I Rise" and "Phenomenal Woman," which would alone be worth the price of the book and more, but also offers all her beautiful poems.This includes less famous but equally beautiful poems such as "Poor Girl" and "Is Love."

"Poor Girl" shows the pain of betrayal as well as a level-headed knowledge that the betrayer will again betray.This poem is so beautiful because it demonstrates that not all women blame the "other woman" but instead shows that the speaker of the poem knows how the "other woman" feels and will feel when she is betrayed by the same man as the speaker.The speaker of this woman is a strong, independent woman who refuses to beg the man to stay or be faithful to her, but instead knows that she cannot say anything to the man to make him stop or to the woman to make her see that he will hurt her too.This portrayal of independent women is one of the reason's Angelou has proven to be so inspiring and popular to contemporary women.

"Is Love" shows a deeper dimension to Angelou's poetry as well.The poem shows the difficulty that lies between life and death and questions why we even bother.Instead of providing the answer to that question, Angelou leaves the decision to the reader.Yes, perhaps it is love that pushes us through life, but she does not give us that as an answer because she acknowledges that she cannot know the answer herself, although she does make an attempt with the statement-like title, "Is Love."
This collection of poetry is a wealth of beauty and knowledge that will be treasured by Angelou fans everywhere.However, one must be aware that the poetry within the pages is not all flowers and sunshine, but instead depicts real pain as in "Men."

Poor binding and overall physical book quality. NO reflection on the poetry.
I bought one for me and one as a gift, but the pages were uneven and the binding fragile with a dented cover on one of the two. For the price, I expected a sturdier book. I wonder if I just got defective ones. I've seen poorly made books sold at outlet bookstores. The two I received wouldn't last long before they fell apart.

I'm a huge fan of her work, so I'll be hitting the bookstores ASAP to find sturdier versions of the same collection.

Disappointed in Maya Angelou's poetry
Maya Angelou is one of the weakest poets to be published in America. She writes drab, shallow prose puddles that seem more theater monologues. Her style equivalent to the average telephone conversation. Though a good actress, she doesn't seem capable of the multi-level metaphors, imagination or deep engagement.

Her work runs conversational, sleepy at best. A famous actress, however, her writing is weak, a surface which reflects almost nothing profound. What a horror to think Americans find in her writing even the slightest bit of literary prowess.

The uneducated reading public not familiar with great poetry like Elizabeth Bishop encounter Maya Angelou as a source of little more than sapid, over-done, monotone breathing exercises. Barely the stuff of literature. ... Read more

Product Description
Dedicated to the daughter she never had but sees all around her, Letter to My Daughter reveals Maya Angelou’s path to living well and living a life with meaning. Here in short spellbinding essays are glimpses of the tumultuous life that taught Angelou lessons in compassion and fortitude: how she was brought up by her indomitable grandmother in segregated Arkansas, taken in at thirteen by her more worldly and less religious mother, and grew to be an awkward six-foot-tall teenager whose first experience of loveless sex paradoxically left her with her greatest gift, a son.

Whether she is recalling lost friends such as Coretta Scott King and Ossie Davis, extolling honesty, decrying vulgarity, explaining why becoming a Christian is a “lifelong endeavor,” or simply singing the praises of a meal of red rice, Maya Angelou writes from the heart to millions of women she considers her extended family. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (85)

Letter to My Daughter
A beautiful book by Maya Angelou.She shares thoughts and lessons on many topics and I can hear her voice as I read it.

A letter to my daughter
A letter to my Daughter is okay.I was a little disappointed.Maya shares a lot of her life experiences and you can learn some things from her vicariously. She openly tells about life mistakes, mishaps and even times when she was a little paranoid perhaps about other people's intentions.So it's okay.Just not what I was expecting. Clearly not her best work.

letter to my daughter
I just love the book and it came on time for the book club reading
i love the products that I buy from amazon
thanks
wanda faison

Wonderful words of wisdom and insight
Letter to My Daughter is a collection of 28 essays on life, faith, motherhood, kindness, and what it means to be human. The pieces are short but are wonderful words of wisdom and insight.

I am right with Angelou as she takes on popular culture and our acceptance of obscenity. She calls on us to improve our values to be a people of substance, and to require the same from our elected officials. I found this to be a very thought provoking read.

Not as heavy in the lecturing as some of her books.
I was disappointed there was not a daughter, but premise is okay.
Interesting background of author-pretty horrible a couple times.
I admire her tenacity, maybe got some of that from her mother.Still,
she was odd.It would have probably have answered questions that arouse
during the reading, if the author explained her mothers behavior more.
A lack of responsibility bothered me a little.The poetry section was
good.Angelou's preachy tendencies were less apparent than in other books.
All in all it was okay. ... Read more

Product Description
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 and 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 is a modern American classic that will touch hearts and change minds for as long as people read.Amazon.com Review
In this first of five volumes of autobiography, poet MayaAngelou recounts a youth filled with disappointment, frustration,tragedy, and finally hard-won independence. Sent at a young age tolive with her grandmother in Arkansas, Angelou learned a great dealfrom this exceptional woman and the tightly knit black communitythere. These very lessons carried her throughout the hardships sheendured later in life, including a tragic occurrence while visitingher mother in St. Louis and her formative years spent inCalifornia--where an unwanted pregnancy changed her lifeforever. Marvelously told, with Angelou's "gift for language andobservation," this "remarkable autobiography by an equally remarkableblack woman from Arkansas captures, indelibly, a world of which mostAmericans are shamefully ignorant." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (331)

A Gift For My Mother
My Mother had asked me for the book, I looked it up here on Amazon and it was sent to her in mint condition. She loves this book dearly...

Maya Angelou
I bought the book used and it came promptly and was in good condition. I would use this seller again.

Can't finish it!
This is one book I cannot even finish.I do not like Maya's writing style at all.She seems to repeat herself, at least in the first part of the book.I do not recommend it at all.

No problems
I received the book is great time and it was in great shape. Nice price too. No problems with order

Absolutely beautiful
I normally don't go for nonfiction. I had previously read sections of this books for some of my classes in college, but never read the whole thing. After reading it though I'm wondering why it took me so long. This book is really amazing and the way that Angelou writes is wonderfully refreshing. I thought the ending was great and fit perfectly with her style. She has this fabulous way of writing that is both wonderfully poetic and yet manages to smack you in the face in a tell it like it is sort of way. Anyway, this book is definitely worth reading even if you don't normally read nonfiction. Her story seemed to me to be about how important the relationships in your life are. Through every place she lived, Maya had those people in her life that influenced her for good or bad. Anyway, you should read this book! ... Read more

Product Description
Gather Together in My Name continues Maya Angelou’s personal story, begun so unforgettably in I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. The time is the end of World War II and there is a sense of optimism everywhere. Maya Angelou, still in her teens, has given birth to a son. But the next few years are difficult ones as she tries to find a place in the world for herself and her child. She goes from job to job–and from man to man. She tries to return home–back to Stamps, Arkansas–but discovers that she is no longer part of that world. Then Maya’s life takes a dramatic turn, and she faces new challenges and temptations.

In this second volume of her poignant autobiographical series, Maya Angelou powerfully captures the struggles and triumphs of her passionate life with dignity, wisdom, humor, and humanity. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (24)

Never Again
I still have not received this book so I will never order from this person again!I needed this for class but wanted to own the book now I have to borrow it fro the library!

Confessions from a hard knock life
Gather Together in My Name is the shortest book in Maya's autobiographical series, but it's jam packed with the harsh realities of life. 17 year old Maya (or Rita as she called herself at the time) tries to make a life for herself and her baby boy Guy. She works several jobs as a waitress until she agrees to become the "manager" of a brothel with the help of two lesbian prostitutes. That's right. Maya Angelou was once a teenage madam. Fearing arrest and losing custody of her son, she returns to Momma (her grandma) and Uncle Willie in Stamps. A run-in with a racist store clerk forces Momma to send Maya and Guy back to California.

While trying to find her place in the world, the young naive girl finds herself taken advantage of many times. She falls in love with an older man who later ditches her for another woman and a preacher boyfriend fools her into prostituting herself in order to pay off some gangsters. She stumbles, falls, and makes a fool of herself over and over again until nearly losing her baby to a deranged babysitter sets her on the right path.

Maya is always honest about her life, but she really put it all on the line in this book. She's not proud of some of the things she's done, but she reveals herself as a human whose made several dumb choices, but managed to learn from them. In other words, your past doesn't have to define who you can become.

I have no idea!!!!!!
I order many books from amazon as well as switch books with friends so I have not had a chance to read "Gather together in my Name".

a must read
What an inspiration that Maya Angelou is to the world.Her story shows there is hope for everyone in any circumstance to overcome and make a difference to this world.If you don't know her story, this is a must read!!You'll love it.

Inspiring and unapologetic read!
Maya Angelou continues her life story in Gather Together In My Name.She candidly describes her experiences being a young mother, experimenting with the temptations life presents, and her mistakes.Through it all the reader grows from her experience alongside her.Another page turning examination of the experience of life written with boldness, beauty, and simplicity. ... Read more

Product Description
Throughout Maya Angelou’s life, from her childhood in Stamps, Arkansas, to her world travels as a bestselling writer, good food has played a central role. Preparing and enjoying homemade meals provides a sense of purpose and calm, accomplishment and connection. Now in Hallelujah! The Welcome Table, Angelou shares memories pithy and poignant–and the recipes that helped to make them both indelible and irreplaceable.

Angelou tells us about the time she was expelled from school for being afraid to speak–and her mother baked a delicious maple cake to brighten her spirits. She gives us her recipe for short ribs along with a story about a job she had as a cook at a Creole restaurant (never mind that she didn’t know how to cook and had no idea what Creole food might entail). There was the time in London when she attended a wretched dinner party full of wretched people; but all wasn’t lost–she did experience her initial taste of a savory onion tart. She recounts her very first night in her new home in Sonoma, California, when she invited M. F. K. Fisher over for cassoulet, and the evening Deca Mitford roasted a chicken when she was beyond tipsy–and created Chicken Drunkard Style. And then there was the hearty brunch Angelou made for a homesick Southerner, a meal that earned her both a job offer and a prophetic compliment: “If you can write half as good as you can cook, you are going to be famous.”

Maya Angelou is renowned in her wide and generous circle of friends as a marvelous chef. Her kitchen is a social center. From fried meat pies, chicken livers, and beef Wellington to caramel cake, bread pudding, and chocolate éclairs, the one hundred-plus recipes included here are all tried and true, and come from Angelou’s heart and her home. Hallelujah! The Welcome Table is a stunning collaboration between the two things Angelou loves best: writing and cooking. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (49)

Wonderful Cookbook, Wonderful Writing too
I'm famous for haunting thrifts, looking for cookbooks from days gone by, but I bought this one new in New Orleans. I picked it up, intending only to leaf through it, then put it back. But I opened the book on page 145, saw the recipe for Decca's Chicken Drunkard Style and thought, "That's pretty gosh darned simple." And I immediately knew how it would taste. I have a pretty good memory. I could have made my own variation without any problems, but I bought the book.

And though there are a few things here I'd never make, Liver and Onions and the Tripe recipes, for example, there is plenty in here to enjoy, like the Roasted Turkey on page 117. And as an added bonus you get a lifetime of Maya Angelou's memories, written down as only she can write them. Wonderful recipes and Ms. Angelou's delicious writing. What more could you ask of a cookbook?

Charming little cookbook!
This charming cookbook caught me off guard. I was expecting somethingstraightforward, but, was pleasantly surprised once I began to explore. I love her whimsical approach to writing this book. It left me "hungry" for more. I have tried several of the recipes and thoroughly enjoyed them. Hopefully, we shall see more cookbooks from this acclaimed authoress.

'LOVES IT'
Great Book...recipes I have made so far are great, especially the Caramel Cake.I have made this one twice, and I am very pleased with it.

Great stories and good recipes
I love Maya Angelou and the way she tells her stories. I've read several of her books and is always amazed of how she finds joy in every situation."Hallelujah! The Welcome Table" should not be used asjust a cookbook.It should be read cover to cover. The recipes are always accompanied by an amusing story. The stories are funny, touching and well-written.I gave it four stars because there are not too many recipes in this book, but the recipes that she has are very good--basic down home cooking, nothing fancy.I've made her Ashford Salad (Romaine lettuce with avocado dressing) p.211 countless times. This book is a good collection of short stories with recipes.

Maya Does It Again
I was so disappointed in this book.Not because it was a horrible book but because it ended.I was reading the memories she had of each recipe and throughly enjoying myself when I realized that the next page that I turned was the index.I didn't want it to be over so soon.I really felt a sense of deep disappointment.I was surprised at my reaction because it was after all only a recipe book.This book pulls you in and takes you on a journey both of her life and her culinary expertise.You will get wrapped up in it as you laugh and imagine the flavors of the dishes.I think that she should write another recipe book.I'm sure that these are not the only recipes she knows.I admire Dr. Angelou both as a poet, writer, woman, and cook. ... Read more

Product Description
Offering gems of truth on every page, a treasure of a book from the beloved poet is down to earth, inspirational, and wise, offering thoughts on womanhood, spirituality, and the joy of living well. Reprint. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (39)

Another good read!
Maya Angelou never disappoints. Her descriptions of people and places are so vivid that you feel like you are right there as she tells the story.

A Writer Who Understands the Pulse of Real Life
I loved this book.It consists of short essays on life lessons and meaning.

I especially appreciated 'New Directions' which my daughter read out loud to me at a time when I was dealing with my own life changes.The essay was comforting and hopeful.

'Living Well Living Good' is an essay about how riends, family, closeness, and fun are all necessary in order to be happy.

I think everyone needs to read 'A Day Away' to appreciate the gifts that solitude and seclusion bring us.We can learn to give ourselves permission to accept this gift.

I highly recommend this book.

A Gentler, More Philosophical Angelou
"I remind myself that it is sufficient that I know what I know and know that without believing that I will always know what I know or that what I know will always be true."

Fortunately, the foregoing sentence from "Death and the Legacy" on page 48 of Angelou's book is not typical of the writing style in the rest of it, else I would never have labored through it nor have written this review.With very few exceptions, and the quoted sentence is by far the worst, Angelou's writing is clear, straightforward, and unlikely to send the reader scurrying off to find a dictionary.At times, she even waxes poetic, both literally and figuratively, and at those times she is a delight to read.For the rest, while I find the writing not particularly inspirational, neither do I find it stultifying or insulting to the reader's intelligence.It is, let us conclude, quite agreeable.

This little book, of small dimensions and only 139 pages, is a collectionof homilies and philosophical reveries. Except in the most general sense, none is connected to any other, so there is no thread, theme, or "story" in the book.Even the longest, most developed, essay requires a mere seven pages, and one is as brief as a single page, so this is hardly a book in which one can lose oneself or find much in the way of diversion.

The book can easily be devoured in a single sitting, but that's probably the wrong way to approach it.If one really wants to savor and appreciate the observations, reactions, and "lessons" in these ruminations, it's better to take them one at a time, consider each one for a while, and only then read the next.

The one thing that strikes me most forcefully about this book is that it reveals a much different Angelou than we find in her earlier, autobiographical writings.The angry young woman of the earlier books has become a more mature, gentle, understanding and almost forgiving person in this one.I say "almost" because the sections entitled "Voices of Respect"and "Brutality Is Definitely Not Acceptable" present a few things that Angelou is not yet prepared to forgive, and the angry, fierce young woman of Angelou's autobiographical writings comes close to reappearing. Yet, her extraordinarily gentle and understanding treatment of racism in "Our Boys" portrays a graciousness not often observed in her earlier books, and her poem in that section is nothing short of inspirational:

I note the obvious differences
between each sort and type,
but we are more alike, my friends,
than we are unalike.

To see the full poem, by all means do read the book, particularly if you have read Angelou'sautobiographical works.This one will show another side of this literary lady.

A book of wisdom
"Wouldn't take nothing for my journey now" is a series of short essays by Maya Angelou on a myriad of topics such as pregnancy, self-worth, style, death, friends, family, racism and many other topics.

This books is amazing, I could not put it down. In a couple of hours I was done with the book, and by the end I felt so much better. It is both uplifting and full of wisdom and advice. It is the type of book that you read with a highlighter, make notes and show to friends. The type of book that you quote and say "But, of course" this makes sense.

As another reviewer mentioned, some of the things she writes about are self-evident, but sometimes we need a reminder, something that tells us "go on". This book does just that.

The essays are so varied that more than one is bound to hit close to home. Her advice in each essay is advice that comes from experience and the wisdom that has come from that experience. She writes like a woman who has lived a lot, pondered a lot and has resolved some basic things as her truth.

When talking about womanhood, she borrows a bit from Shakespeare and says "A rose by any other name may smell as sweet," and then adds "but a woman called by a devaluing name will only be weakened by the misnomer" About death she writes that she "seems at peace with the idea that a day ill dawn when I will not longer be among those living in this valley of strange humors" and that she is capable of accepting this but "unable to accept the death of anyone else." She then launches onto a empathic discourse about the death of a loved one.

Each essay is full of wisdom and advice and this is something that everyone should read. It is also a great present to give.

Miniature gem
This is almost like a daily affirmation book by poet Maya Angelou.It contains affirmations on every day life and issues that we all face as a human beings.My personal favorite is her mantra that when one cannot follow the way of the world, than he/she should create his/her own path.While doing that a person of real grace will accept God because God gives us purpose and God's love provides hope that there is something good for us out there.We all have to find our own way to get there.But that way we should still be a virtuous people with manners and respect towards others.Our unique style will make us a brand that will be attractive to the outside world, simply because we embrace it ourselves.While I understand Ms. Angelou's take on racism, I must add that racism in its exclusiveness, meanness and repulsion is no different from sexism, intolerance to people who are different in any way or are treated as a second class citizens due to their national origin.Wonderful book to keep in pocket and refer to in time of need for assurance and comfort.Simply written with wisdom of the woman who has seen, felt and experienced the world. ... Read more

Product Description
In The Heart of a Woman, Maya Angelou leaves California with her son, Guy, to move to New York. There she enters the society and world of black artists and writers, reads her work at the Harlem Writers Guild, and begins to take part in the struggle of black Americans for their rightful place in the world. In the meantime, her personal life takes an unexpected turn. She leaves the bail bondsman she was intending to marry after falling in love with a South African freedom fighter, travels with him to London and Cairo, where she discovers new opportunities.

The Heart of a Woman is filled with unforgettable vignettes of such renowned people as Billie Holiday and Malcom X, but perhaps most importantly chronicles the joys and the burdens of a black mother in America and how the son she has cherished so intensely and worked for so devotedly finally grows to be a man.Amazon.com Review
Oprah Book Club® Selection, May 1997: Maya Angelou has had more lives than the proverbial cat, andin The Heart of a Woman she continues the account of herremarkable life begun in I Know Why the Caged BirdSings. In the firstbook of her bestselling autobiographical series, she describes hertraumatic childhood in the small, segregated town of Stamps,Arkansas, during the 1930s. Gather Together in My Name picks up the storyin the postwar years, when Maya, a single teenagerwith an infant son becomes, in short order, a cook, a madam, adancer, and a prostitute. Next comes Singin' and Swingin' and Gettin' Merry LikeChristmas, an account of her twenties and her unsuccessfulfirst marriage to a white man. The Heart of a Woman, the fourthin the series, takes us through one of the most exciting andformative periods of Angelou's amazing life: her beginnings as awriter and an activist in New York.

Angelou has a happy knack of attracting the best and the brightestinto her orbit, and The Heart of a Woman offers a veritablecornucopia of black luminaries in its pages. Singer Billie Holiday,writers John Ellins and Paule Marshall, jazz musicians Max Roach andAbbey Lincoln, and actors Godfrey Cambridge and James Earl Jones--Mayameets and learns from them all. Political activism soon follows asMs. Angelou first organizes a theatrical benefit for the ReverendMartin Luther King and then becomes the director of the New YorkSouthern Christian Leadership Conference office. Her involvement in the civil rights movement eventually brings her intocontact with African freedom fighters Oliver Tambo and the charmingVusumzi Make, whom she marries and follows to Africa.

The Heart of a Woman is as honest, painful, funny, outraged,and outrageous as Angelou herself. From her debut at the ApolloTheatre to her meeting with Malcolm X, Maya Angelou gives us somethingto cheer about and plenty to ponder as well. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (58)

Shocked
I struggled with this review because I start every book with a positive attitude, but I was shocked at how angry this book made me.

It's undeniable that Maya Angelou has led a colorful and interesting life.I stop there because I found her to be extremely unlikable.And very angry.It's difficult to go against a book written about black oppression and racial equality, but Angelou makes that easy by telling the reader how much she hates white people or "crackers" as she calls them.

Nowhere do I see any kind of evidence that she regards all people as human.It's blacks and anyone else of color vs. whites.She holds the reader responsible for slavery, hatred and discrimination.I don't relate to her as a woman or as a human being.

And everywhere throughout this memoir there is evidence of poor judgment on the part of Angelou.She claims to have a great relationship with her son Guy, but her child-rearing choices are often shocking.In particular, Angelou brags about how she borrows a gun and visits the home of a gang member who has threatened Guy (a teenager at this point).Her language is ugly and her intentions unclear when she tells the gang member (a teenager himself) that she will kill him if he keeps bothering Guy.

Her choices in men are equally foolish.From casual lovers to Thomas whom she almost marries (by the way she meets him in a bar) and then to Vus whom she hardly knows.Is the reader supposed to admire her for marrying Vus because his work is so important?

She seems to think the reader will admire her tendency to jump right into situations without thinking, leaving the consequences for later.What do other people see in her writing?Please comment if you can tell me.

Fantastic Book - Great Read!!
Maya Angelou once again proves to be such a prolific writer - every word is designed to make you experience her life as she did. Great read for anyone, whether a teenager or adult!

Heartrending
This book touched my heart & gave a better understanding of this remarkable woman. We need more like her in this world

Great book!
Ordered this book because I love Maya Angelo and this book was no disappointment. Recommend you read this book it will thrill your soul!

hard to read
i start reading this and always have a hard time finishing it. her story is interesting, but for some reason it loses me at times. ... Read more

Product Description
Superbly told, with the poet's gift for language and observation, Angelou's autobiography of her childhood in Arkansas - a world of which most Americans are ignorant. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Powerful, Beautifully told LIfe Story
I couldn't put it down.Ms. Angelou's fresh, direct prose was irresistible, even if I had wanted respite.Her life is fascinating and she tells her story with courage and humor.I am grateful she has committed her life to these books and given us this gift.

Brilliant!
Maya writes with such a commanding style that it is an absolute pleasure reading her words. My advice is very simple - if you are at all interested in anything to do with Maya Angelou then don't muck about, order your copy of this volume today!

Eye-Opening Book
We have learned more about Maya Angelou than we ever thought we knew.We had the utmost respect for her but after reading the book, we have even more respect for Maya Angelou.

Very Interesting!
Great book.I've learned so much about Maya Angelou and am fascinated by her life.

Through the eyes of an african american woman
I am not African American, not African, not American, and this book was such an eye opener. It is so rich in humanity, it is a pleasure to read. Each one of the 6 books is written with a distinctive voice as a person is maturing. Maya has a way of writing that is refreshing, intimate and profound.

Through her eyes we become aware of the distinctive culture and values that her characters share or challenge. We see the need that every person has to live life fully and the questions we all need to answer about who we are and what are we here for.

I particularly liked the "All God's chhildren need traveling shoes" best. this book is a must for people who seek to accept that we can be different, yet valued.

It is a distinctive book because it is written in a way that lifts the spirits and intrigues the intelect. .... "to the determination to be no victim of any kind". ... Read more

Product Description
"Thoroughly enjoyable . . . an important document drawing more much-needed attention to the hidden history of a people both African and American."--Los Angeles Times Book Review. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

Enjoyed it
I will not bore any of you with a LONG drawn out review ..lol..

I read this book a few years ago and totally enjoyed it! This book started me on thinking about visiting Afrika {Africa} & see different areas!

If you have read other books by Maya Angelou, I think you'll enjoy this one as well!

what book?
I never received my order and the company just blamed it on slow mail.I waited over a month before getting my money back.

The Hobo Philosopher
A rather nice lady gave me this book and asked me to read it. I did. When I returned it to her I asked her why she wanted me to read it. I had never heard of Maya Angelou and unfortunately I found the book very unimpressive. The writing was done well and the phrasing was nice but as far as having something to say, I thought that it was rather shallow. I thought the author of the book to be rather mediocre, somewhat insensitive, and very much enamored with herself. This wasn't the life of Mahatma Gandhi or Desmond Tutu. She seemed to me to be a typical woman on a personal journey to success and all the people around her were stepping stones along that path.

Her relationship with her son I did not interpret from her writing to be very "motherly." It came off as phony and hypocritical. I would be interested to learn what her son thinks of his mother today.

At one point she was engaged to be married to a man who sounded like a rather nice, simple, sincere fellow. Suddenly Maya bumps into a celebrity from a country in Africa and she dumps the guy back home without a second thought and is off seeking fame and fortune in a foreign land. This relationship ends and she uses her estranged husband's name and fame to find herself a job in journalism.

She doesn't hesitate to bad mouth Billy Holiday. Billy supposedly commented on Maya's singing, mocking Maya for being insensitive and lacking in feeling and pathos in her presentation. And judging from the author's own confessions in this book, it would seem that Billy was right on the money.

Since that time I have picked up tapes of poetry by Maya and I enjoyed them - not so much for the content which once again is all me, me, me but for the presentation. She reads poetry well.

Sorry. We all have our opinions. I know that there are people who for whatever reasons love and admire this woman. And for all I know their feelings are more than justified. I am simply commentating on the impressions her words have instilled in me. But, by all means, please buy the book and judge for yourself. I'm sure my little review will not be putting this woman's career in any jeopardy.

Books written by Richard Noble - The Hobo Philosopher:
"Hobo-ing America: A Workingman's Tour of the U.S.A.."
"A Summer with Charlie" Salisbury Beach, Lawrence YMCA
"A Little Something: Poetry and Prose
"Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother" Novel - Lawrence, Ma.
"The Eastpointer" Selections from award winning column.
"Noble Notes on Famous Folks" Humor - satire - facts.
"America on Strike" American Labor - History
"A Baker's Dozen" Short Stories

Through Angelou's Eyes
From purely a literary standpoint, I find ALL GOD'S CHILDREN NEED TRAVELING SHOES perhaps the best of Angelou's series of autobiographical works that I have encountered thus far.It is the fifth "installment," having been preceded by I KNOW WHY THE CAGED BIRD SINGS, GATHER TOGETHER IN MY NAME, SINGIN' AND SWINGIN' AND GETTIN' MERRY LIKE CHRISTMAS, and THE HEART OF A WOMAN.While I suppose that any of these could be read in isolation, to do so would be analogous to reading a single chapter from a full-length novel.One may enjoy the contents of that single chapter but will miss all the background material that explains how the characters reached that point in time and space as well as everything that follows to explain and wrap-up the story.For the same reasons, one really should read each of Angelou's books and in chronological order, too.Consequently, if one is examining reader reviews before purchasing ALL GOD'S CHILDREN, and if this is the first of Angelou's books being considered, please wait.Reading the others first will enhancesignificantly the reader's enjoyment of this one.

Pure autobiographies tend, in my experience, to be rather dull reading for the most part.Where is the excitement in a list of events and dates?That sort of dry recitation of historical facts is the reason that most of us were likely bored to somnambulance by our high school history textbooks. Happily, this is not at all that sort of autobiography.What one finds in Angelou's books is the world seen through her eyes and interpreted by her mind, and she carries with her the filters built strand by strand by her life experiences.

What "life experiences"?Being born Black into a legally, socially, culturally and thoroughly segregated country.Being abandoned by one's father.Being shipped across country by one's mother to be raised by an aging grandparent.Feeling the constant scorn and belittlement fostered by racial segregation.Bearing a child when one is still herself a child.Being duped by another into prostitution.Failing at an attempt at marriage.On the other hand, conversing with such figures as Martin Luther King and Malcolm X.Touring Europe as member of a musical cast.Living in Africa.Angelou's experiences, both negative and positive, were emotionally extreme, or at least significant, events, and they created interpretative filters that are quite different from those of essentially all of her readers.This difference is what makes her books captivating to read and worthy of her readers' consideration.

I suggest that the epitome of Angelou's skill as a prose author of the first five books I have mentioned above comes in the closing chapter of ALL GOD'S CHILDREN.Her encounter with the Ewe tribal women in the marketplace in Ghana's village of Keta is expressed in nearly supernatural terms.In the actual event, she is merely mistaken for another person, but, to Angelou, the encounter firmly establishes Africa as her spiritual homeland, the origin of her own ancestors who, generations earlier, were sold into slavery in a strange land across the ocean.The skill with which she describes her feelings at this encounter is one to which any writer might aspire.

I must admit to another aspect of Angelou's writing that I find almost annoying, however, and that is her repeated and continuous reference to the effects of slavery.If any evil exists in the universe, if sin seeks an embodiment, if a cause for all the misery in the contemporary world must be identified, Angelou finds it in slavery.Judging solely by the attitude revealed in these five books, one could conclude only that all Caucasians are blue-eyed devils, that they alone made possible the eternal and unforgivable sin of enslavement, that no redemption is possible and that racial integration is never achievable or even desirable.If there is such a concept as "original sin," it has nothing to do with a mythological Adam or Eve in a "garden of Eden" but rather with the insufferable conceit of Whites and the horror of slavery, most particularly slavery in the United States.To judge by the attitude that pervades these five books, one would think that Angelou was herself born into slavery, exploited economically and sexually by her White masters, and denigrated to the very edge of sanity.Not to excuse or to minimize in any way the physical and emotional pain of slavery, its immorality or absence of any ethical justification whatsoever, but "methinks the lady doth protest too much."She claims for herself an understanding of the debasement of slavery that her own history does not support.She assumes a mantle as spokesperson for long dead generations that she is not qualified to wear.To what extent historical slavery and racial prejudice may bear the blame for what were her own poor choices in life I am hardly qualified to say, yet I would caution the reader to bear in mind the fact that we are seeing events through the author's intellectual filters and that no one's filters are totally objective.

Having said that, I hurriedly add that my critical observation should in no way deter anyone from reading Angelou's books.On the contrary, while I may feel that she is at times presumptuous in assuming spokesperson status on the topics of slavery and contemporary racial bigotry, her perceptions provide many revelations for her readers and are worth noting.On now to the next book of this series, A SONG FLUNG UP TO HEAVEN.

Her Poems
her poems are so great. They teach great valuable lessons that we should all here. ... Read more

Product Description
The culmination of a unique achievement in modern American literature: the six volumes of autobiography that began more than thirty years ago with the appearance of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.

A Song Flung Up to Heaven opens as Maya Angelou returns from Africa to the United States to work with Malcolm X. But first she has to journey to California to be reunited with her mother and brother. No sooner does she arrive there than she learns that Malcolm X has been assassinated.

Devastated, she tries to put her life back together, working on the stage in local theaters and even conducting a door-to-door survey in Watts. Then Watts explodes in violence, a riot she describes firsthand.

Subsequently, on a trip to New York, she meets Martin Luther King, Jr., who asks her to become his coordinator in the North, and she visits black churches all over America to help support King’s Poor People’s March.

But once again tragedy strikes. King is assassinated, and this time Angelou completely withdraws from the world, unable to deal with this horrible event. Finally, James Baldwin forces her out of isolation and insists that she accompany him to a dinner party—where the idea for writing I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is born. In fact, A Song Flung Up to Heaven ends as Maya Angelou begins to write the first sentences of Caged Bird.Amazon.com Review
It's been a long time coming, but A Song Flung Up to Heaven triumphantly completes the six volumes of autobiography that began nearly 30 years ago with Maya Angelou's astonishingly successful I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, a work that changed readers' perceptions of what autobiographical writing could achieve. The impact of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (which evoked the author's adolescence and sexual abuse in Arkansas) was unprecedented. It combined frankness and emotional force with a nuanced, poetic style--a style that Angelou has perhaps found more elusive recently. But it's here again, as affecting as ever. The book deals with the years 1964-68, a turbulent period in which Angelou came back to America after her African sojourn. This, of course, was the time of the assassinations of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King; Angelou was on the point of working with the latter in the civil rights movement. Her voice is fresh and exhilarating as she deals with the tragedies and triumphs of a packed life, and there are some set-piece moments, such as her account of the misguided revenge she took on an ex-lover.

Many women have become celebrated as writers and poets, but Angelou has also enjoyed a distinguished career as a civil rights activist, producer, performer, actress, and filmmaker. With all of this under her belt, she can be forgiven for the note of self-congratulation that creeps in at times. But for those who've followed her unique writing, this is a journey into a fascinating life and a riveting picture of a divided America, always informed with that clear-sighted vision Angelou is famous for. --Barry Forshaw, Amazon.co.uk ... Read more

Customer Reviews (36)

A song flung uo to Heaven
This book is funny, sad, educational, loving but above all inspiring. This book made me reflect about many aspects of my life, has made me appreciate all the little things in life. You can feel love through every single chapter. She is a wonderful writer, a wonderful women and inspiring in every single way. Teaches you that there is more to life, you just need to learn to pick up the pieces and get ready for a new day to come.

Book arrived in great condition
The seller sent this book in great condition.I read through it about 1 year after I bought it.I recommend the seller but not the book.

Wonderful as always
To write from the heart and build a lasting connection with a reader is Maya's gift.The story is written concisely, but with depth.A must read for any Angelou fan or those seeking a personal glimpse at a tumultuous period in American history.

From a Sister
This is one of my favorite books of the last 200 years for the simple reason that my sister, Nancy, was walking down a street in New York and she heard a commotion from within a Manhattan bookstore, and when she poked her head in, who to her wondering eyes did appear but regal, imperious, humorous poet Maya Angelou reading from what was then (2004) her very latest autobiography.With trepidation, Nancy entered the store and managed to strike up a brief conversation with the author, and when she told Dr. Angelou that her brother, Kevin, was a poet in the Bay Area, the good Doctor grabbed a sharpie and scrawled my name on the title page, with a special message just for me--"Joy." Later I found out that this was not the most joyful time (personally speaking) for Dr. Angelou and that private trials and tribulations were wracking her soul and conscience--but she had the show business stance of, "give your audience what they deserve"and so she was able to impart her words of joy (or one word) to me once the book was wrapped and sitting underneath my Christmas tree.I shook it and held it to my ear, never guessing it was a book, never guessing that every word might have been written directly to be whispered into my ear.

I enjoyed finding out what Malcolm X and Dr., King were like, not as political figures per se, but as friends.We all know their history and the huge place they filled in the civil rights struggle here in America, but in this book, volume 6 of her autobiography, we find out how they (and also Nichelle Nichols from the original STAR TREK) fit into the colorful and florid pattern of Dr. Angelou;s voyage.We are present when she is trying to keep body and soul together by scraping out radio jingles and topical songs based on Philip Roth's PORTNOY'S COMPLAINT.(By the way, when is that fugitive track going to appear on the long-awaited boxed set collection of Dr. Angelou's songwriting genius?We were promised this by Rhino over seven years ago!)She brings us to the intimate home life of the beautiful Abbey Lincoln and also Rosa Guy, both of them welcoming spirits who made a place in their homes for the wandering soul of rolling stone Maya Angelou.Is there any place that has not been blessed with a visit from the author?

At bottom the book is sad, because, despite everything, she was in Ghana for much of the period exploring her African roots and the humid tendrils of her sexuality, and therefore she missed seeing firsthand what went down in the Audubon ballroom, a story she has often told.You don't really get a good sense of her relationships with people here, other than Guy a little bit.I think she was too mournful and driven to write this book with the same care as her previous books, but subsequent work both in Hallmark cards and other forms of writing, have seen a triumphant return.I wish her one word-- "Joy."Thanks, Nancy!

Engaging and Well Writ
This is one of the six autobiographical works by Maya Angelou.

Here, Maya Angelou returns to the U.S. after living in Ghana working with Malcolm X.

When she gets back to her home, she finds out Malcolm X has been assassinated. This saddens and upsets her but confuses her too, since a black man has killed him. Eventually, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. asks Maya to go around to black churches to try to gain support for the Poor People's March. But he too gets assassinated.

This work is full of depth and words that will help you delve into yourself and your feelings.

If you like this book, you may like to read I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings which follows this. ... Read more

Product Description
Includes four poetry collections: "Just give me a cool drink of water 'fore I diiie", "Oh pray my wings are gonna fit me well", "And still I rise", and "Shaker, why don't you sing?". ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Lessons of Culture and Racism in Maya Angelou's Poems
As a non African-American, I appreciate Maya Angelou's Poems for showing me the trials and tribulations with racism she had to undergo throughout her life.In this collection of poetry, Angelou has preserved the anguish of discrimination and effectively conveys the racial struggles she experienced.

One particular poem that opened my eyes is "When I Think About Myself" where she states, "Sixty years in these folks' world/ The child I works for calls me girl/ I say `Yes ma'am' for working's sake" (26).This particular poem made me aware that, although we have made major strides in equality, we still have a long way to go to heal the deep scars her generation endured.

Another poem that exposes the darker side of racism is "No No No No."She expresses her deep rooted resentment as she bitterly writes, "I've let your men cram my mouth/ with their black throbbing hate" (41).She also candidly expresses her frustrations with discrimination in "The Calling of Names" where she gives a historical overview of the treatment of non-white races.

Not all of Angelou's poetry is filled with resentment and bitterness.She also celebrates her culture and way of life with her saucy language and subject matter that takes you from the bedside of a prostitute in "They Went Home" to the streets in "Harlem Hopscotch."She beautifully expresses the soulfulness of African-American life in "Times-Square-Shoeshine-Composition" as she composes a rhythmic sound that resonates in your ears;

"I'll clean `em til they squeak
(pow pow)
In the middle of next week,
(pow pow)
I'll shine `em til they whine
(pow pow) (32)

Overall, this collection of poems is definitely a history lesson from which all races can benefit.Maya Angelou has experienced pain, joy, love, and hate and has used this wisdom to carry a message for generations to come.

One that transcends the color of our skin
When I picked up a copy of this book for one of my graduate courses, I had no idea how much the poetry would impact me; so many of Maya Angelou's poems are inspiring, haunting, beautiful, and decadent.Being that she is African-American and I am white, I wondered what kind of connection there could be.After reading "Sounds Like Pearls" and "Poor Girl", I realized how wrong I was.We share a human connection, one that transcends the color of our skin.
"Poor Girl" hit so close to home because I have been through the wreckage of infidelity.I know what it is like to watch someone you love leave for the other side of the fence.
In the year since his leaving, I have also discovered that my heart is healing and I am happy again.When I read the eight lines of "Sounds Like Pearls", I cried at the realization that I am allowing myself to let go of my heart; that when I am around a certain someone, "Doubt and fear,/ Ungainly things,/ With bushings/ Disappear."
Another poem that touched my funny bone was "The Health-Food Dinner."I laughed out loud and promptly read it to my mother who is a health-food nut.Even she enjoyed the humor and promised she would never make us eat "uncooked kale."
I loved how these different poems could connect to different emotions that each of us feels, from sadness to healing to laughter.
This is a collection of poems that I will pick up and read again and again throughout my life.With each reading, I will connect, through human-ness and emotion, to the words Maya Angelou has written.
I highly recommend this volume of poetry to anyone with emotion and a desire to know them deeper.

Wonderful Book of Poetry
This fantastic book of verse and poetry is a must read. It's filled with golden nuggets. I keep a copy in my car for inspirational reading. One of the most moving poems is "Still I Rise." The words of this poem remind us that the spirit is capable of rising above all odds and obstacles. Allowing for normal reflection of our youth is "Harlem Hopscotch." One cannot help but reflect on the days of sidewalk games, acting cool, and getting to sing and to hop. The poem allows us to recall such fun days. Having intestinal fortitude is shown in "Just Like Job." It reminds us that even though life is a struggle, victory is there when we call upon God our creator. He hears our pleas and attends to our needs. This book is one of encouragement and motivation. As a result, it relaxes the soul. Also check "Trilogy Moments for the Mind, Body and Soul" with its new addition of Epulaeryu poems.

Ten stars.
Some poets, many poets, are hard to understand, and are downright boring. I have several poets that I love, and Maya is one of them. Black, white, whatever. They should have made us read her in High School. If we had, Iwould have gotten into poetry much sooner. This book should get 10 stars.

absolutely magnificent
i am 15 and have not yet finished this wonderful book, but i'm loving every minute of it so far. Still I Rise is by far my favorite. I never realized a single poem could hold such inspiration and strength. A bookthat should be read by everyone of all ages and colors. Many thanks to MayaAngelou for such lovely poems. ... Read more

Product Description
Phenomenal Woman is a phenomenal poem that speaks to usof where we are as women at the dawn of a new century.In a clearvoice, Maya Angelou vividly reminds us of our towering strength andbeauty.Here is a poem that radiates wisdom and conviction, renewingour belief in the glory and tender mercies of our gender.

Married to the extraordinary paintings Paul Gauguin, this book becomes avisionary commemoration of all that is wondrous in women.Gauguin paintedwomen with exuberance and joy, reveling in their strength and beauty.Hisportraits are of women of color, women of power, women who gaze out at theviewer with the same quiet resolve and inner mystery that Angeloucelebrates in her poem.

Though Gauguin died twenty-five years before Angelou was born and thesetwo artists lived very different lives in very different cultures, theirwork coalesces perfectly in this one glorious volume.

Here is the ultimate gift for the phenomenal woman in your life--wife,lover, relative, teacher, friend.There's hardly a woman alive today whowill not relate to the words of the poet Maya Angelou and the images ofpainter Paul Gauguin. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

phenomenal gift ...
Phenomenal Woman is an outstanding prose by Dr. Maya Angelou.The piece pays tribute to the indomitable spirit of the brave women ... particularly women of color who have been marginalized because of their looks.However, this book is enhanced by art that displays the diversity of these amazing women... and as such, I think it makes a unique gift.It is a gift that tells the women you admire that you honor them in more ways than one.It's an outstanding gift for the women who already are phenomenal... and those well on their way.

phenomenal woman
Phenomenal Woman is an AMAZING poem that has touched so many females, showing that it is not whats on the outsidethat counts. showing that you dont have to be pretty or skinny to be phenomenal. this poem is one of my favorites because it made me stop worrying about what people think of me. i love this poem because when i am feeling ugly or fat i can read this poem and it will make me feel so much better.

PHENOMENAL WOMAN - PHENOMENAL MAYA
Phenomenal Woman is a "sassy", provocative, intriguing, and alluring poem.Dr. Angelou delves into the soul of every woman and reaches up with the truth.I have admired Dr. Angelou since I read her autobiography (I Know why the Caged Bird Sings, et al.) since my high school days.She truly is an inspiration! Thank you, Maya!

Fabulous combination of poetry and art!
What makes this book so unique and fabulous is the combination of Maya Angelou's "phenomenal poem" and Paul Gauguin's exotic paintings.It's unbelievable how well the two art forms go together.I've lost countof how many times I've read the book.I just keep going back to reread thepoem and stare at the pictures....It's a great gift idea for agirlfriend. ... Read more

Product Description
In this third self-contained volume of her autobiography, which began with I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Maya Angelou moves into the adult world. Maya struggles to support herself and her son through a series of odd jobs and weathers a failed marriage to a white man before landing a gig singing in one of the most popular nightclubs on the San Francisco coast. From there, she is called to New York to join the cast of Porgy and Bess. Maya soon finds herself on a joyous and dramatic adventure, touring abroad through Italy, France, Greece, Yugoslavia, and Egypt with spirited cast members, and performing for large, enthusiastic audiences. The exciting experience is dampened only by Maya’s nagging guilt that she has abandoned the person she loves most in life, her son, whose reentrance into her world reveals to Maya the healing power of devotion and love.

Charged with Maya Angelou’s remarkable sense of life and love, Singin’ and Swingin’ and Gettin’ Merry Like Christmas is a unique celebration of the human condition–and an enthralling saga that has touched, inspired, and empowered readers worldwide. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Stars in her eyes
The third book of Maya's life story covers her search for a husband and juggling her singing and dancing career with being a single mom. While living in San Fransisco with her little boy Guy, Maya is quickly hired by a kind record store owner and soon discovers that not all whites are like the ones who'd hurt her in the past. She meets and falls in love with a Greek sailor named Tosh Angelos. The two marry and Maya's long held fantasy of having a real family and being a housewife comes true. However, Tosh becomes controlling and Maya nearly loses herself by sacrificing her desires to please her husband. That coupled with the outside criticism of their interracial union causes a major strain.

A divorce and a short stint at a strip joint (she didn't strip, but did dance routines while somewhat clothed) later, she takes a leap of faith by adopting a stage name and signing on as a calypso singer at a popular club called The Purple Onion. She then joins the famed Porgy and Bess musical and tours Europe and Africa. Her page turning travels abroad with her co-stars (that diva Martha Flowers is a trip!) make up most of the book. After nearly a year away from her son, she returns home and promises to never leave him for that long again.

Much like the first two books, Singin' is frank and hard to put down. Maya is honest when discussing her dreams of becoming a star, but not giving up being a good mother in the process. Real and admirable.

A More Mature but Still Naive Singin' and Swingin' Angelou
SINGIN' & SWINGIN', the third installment in Angelou's autobiographical series of books, pleased me more than did the first two, or perhaps I should say that it is less uncomfortable to read than are its predecessors.I must confess that, by the time I finished Angelou's second book, her nearly constant expression of prejudice against Caucasian Americans was becoming tedious.

One finds a very thick thread of bias and racial distrust in both CAGED BIRD and in GATHER TOGETHER, and that thread is made even more annoying by the fact that the many instances of abuse and betrayal that Angelou relates in those first two books are all perpetrated not by Whites but by her fellow Blacks, yet that race receives none of her blanket condemnation.Granted, I suppose that, had I lived as a Black in Stamps, Arkansas in the 1930s and '40s, I too would have copious reasons to distrust and dislike the entire White population of the United States, yet the barrage of vituperation directed against that population does become repetitive and predictable, two traits that an author should normally avoid in a book, the justification behind them notwithstanding.SINGIN' & SWINGIN' is not devoid of Angelou's racial prejudices by any means, but it is not so heavily laden with them, and they are not so intrusive as to overwhelm the reader.

Two other targets of criticism arise in Angelou's first three books: her veracity and her own culpability for some of the blows she has described.As to the first, the historical accuracy of these books, I have mentioned in another review that I find most unusual the fact that Angelou, a dropout from the formal educational system, habitue of bars and sometime prostitute and brothel owner, actually plunged into books by authors such as Jane Eyre and Dostoevski for pleasure.Nonetheless, the fact that she writes of having done so tells us something of her self concept and desire for fulfillment and meaning in her life.In SINGIN' & SWINGIN', she writes of her success as a professional singer and dancer, of touring Europe as a cast member of the musical "Porgy and Bess," and of interacting with many "big name" performers.Did she actually "rub shoulders" with all the notables mentioned in her book?

She is re-creating events from years past, and it may be that we are seeing some of her dreams as well as her actions, but what of that?Are not our dreams as much a part of our history as are our recordable acts?And are not all history books, written as they are by victors rather than by thevanquished, slanted by the world view of their authors?Besides, a good story usually benefits from some judicious embellishment.I find no quibble with Angelou's veracity, for I do not expect a word-for-word recollection of some conversation with a colleague decades ago but rather a retelling of that conversation that gives the reader a feel for the way it sounded in Angelou's ears.

The third target, her own culpability for her treatment by others and for the guilt that she herself generates, is purely and simply inapplicable to a review of the book.The reader may feel strongly that Angelou had no right or privilege to seek freedom by touring Europe when she left her young son to the care of others and that she fully deserves the feeling of guilt that she describes.Another reader may feel that she was stupidly careless in her relationships with the Greek purser on her ship and with the ship's doctor.Indeed, even though the Angelou we find in this book is more mature than are her younger incarnations in the previous books, she can still be seen as incredibly naive and even foolish in numerous situations.There will be those who criticize the book because of these self-depictions.However, we must believe that this is the way Angelou saw herself at that stage of her life, and, while the reader may at times want to shake some sense into her, he must not allow this to affect his judgement of the book.Indeed, Angelou paints a very clear picture of herself--as she remembers herself--so, while we may be occasionally annoyed with the picture, we cannot fault the skill of the artist, for the picture is quite clear and unambiguous.

I do not find SINGIN' & SWINGIN' to be a "stand-alone" book.For the reader to understand and appreciate Angelou's situation in this book, he needs to have read I KNOW WHY THE CAGED BIRD SINGS and GATHER TOGETHER IN MY NAME first.We should consider her autobiographical books mere chapters from a larger tome, and we need to read those chapters in order.Of course, having once begun this imaginary book, the reader will want to finish it, and I am looking forward to beginning the next "chapter" in short order.

Oh, one final thought: Ever wonder where Angelou's last name originated and how she "morphed" from Marguerite Johnson into Maya Angelou?The earlier books explained the "Maya," but this one explains the "Angelou."It's a neat revelation.

Candid autobiography.
Maya Angelou tells us without restraint how she crawled out of the hell of her youth years to become a star dancer.
Vivid decription of the situation of the African Americans and their mentality in the middle of last century.
Evocative language, sharp, intelligent and fluent.
A book to recommend.

overall good
I think that the book was very interesting in the beginning and the end, because I like the way it started outlike she was shy about her entertainment career. And at the end it was very dramatic about how she was aboutto kill herself and her son as well because her life wasn't going the way she wanted it to go. Also, how the white community despised her and didn't accept the person that she was. This book really caught my eye, even though I am a young adult. I would recommend this book to teenagers and adults of all ages because it really is an excellent book.

great follow up, but...
this third installment of angelou's sutobiography is just as well written and interesting as her first two. however, i have become completely baffled with ine aspect of the novel. in the first two books, her son's name was guy. suddenly, in "singin and swingin..." her son is referred to as clyde! if anyone knows why this is so, please share your explanation. it would be highly appreciated! and whatever his name is, still a good read. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (3)

Maya Angelou: Positive Encouragement for Young People.
This book consists of 25 poems written by Maya Angelou, and it includes some significant choices for young people to find inspiration.Many of these poems discuss experiences that many people can relate to, but they also provide a sense of hope to all who read the selections.
Two of the most influential poems included in this book are "Still I Rise" and "Me and My Work."These poems are great inspirations for young adolescents, especially since most young people in this stage of development struggle with identity and finding their place in this world."Still I Rise" is a poem that encourages young people to overcome obstacles and stand proud.Angelou writes, "Up from a past that's rooted in pain I rise. I'm a black ocean, leaping and wide, welling and swelling I bear in the tide.Leaving behind nights of terror and fear I rise."Even though this poem is referring to the hope of a young slave, these words are inspirational for anyone overcoming an obstacle in life, and never losing hope despite the hardships.
"Me and My Work" is a poem about perseverance and hard work.This is a great poem for young people to read for them to gain appreciation for the work their parents do, and for them to understand that hard work and perseverance pay off.Angelou writes, "My story ain't news and it ain't all sad. There's plenty worse off than me. Yet the only thing I really don't need is strangers' sympathy. That's someone else's word for caring."These lines remind us that things could be worse than they are, and we should always be thankful for what we do have.Maya Angelou also reminds us that we should take pride in ourselves and our lives, and never to thrive on other's sympathy.Young people are often unhappy and want what they don't have, but they rarely acknowledge the situations that could be worse than what they experience.
This collection of poetry by Maya Angelou is inspirational, and it paints a picture for young people to see the positive side of situations.Adolescence is a tough stage in life and it is characterized by many changes and uncertainties, but Angelou's poetry can be used to encourage and hope in our young people.

Beautiful Words & Art!
This is such a beautiful book and of course Maya's poems are so moving and inspirational.
This is a keepsake for any child or youth..
My granddaughter loves it!

Beautiful poetry with beautiful illustrations
Wonderful poetry selections for young people, complete with definitions of words that kids might be unsure of, and some questions for reflection. The illustrations are a gorgeous complement to the poems. ... Read more

Product Description
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.

An ideal gift for a friend, lover, or family member, this special edition will be treasured by all who receive it.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

A precious collection
This audiobook holds a precious collection of poems by a remarkable woman. The poems are read by Maya Angelou herself and gives more insight in the meaning and depth of her work. The listener will be left wanting to hear more. Luckily there are several (written) collections available and with a little imagination one can hear the author read the poems in one's head.

If you want to hear more, the autobiography is also available on audiobook.

Excellent
I bought this as a present for a good friend and she really enjoyed it.

Fabulous
Maya Angelou's poetry is so phenomenal. And the power of her voice reading her own words, is really moving.

And Still I Rise
Maya Angelou's reading of poetry is moving to the point ot tears and laughter. I highly recommend it.

On time and as expected
This audiobook arrived in about a week and was in the condition advertised.Overall, I was satisfied with the transaction and would purchase from this seller again. ... Read more

Product Description
Maya Angelou, the bestselling author of On the Pulse of Morning, Wouldn't Take Nothing for My Journey Now, and other lavishly praised works, is considered one of America's finest poets. Here, four of her most highly acclaimed poems are assembled in a beautiful gift edition that provides a feast for the eyes as well as the heart. (Poetry) ... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

Poems
the book itself was in great conditions.But it wasn't quite what I was looking for

Empowering to all women
This volume of poetry contains four inspirational and empowering poems for women of all races, religions, backgrounds, and education levels. Maya Angelou is such a wonderful role for all people; men, women, and children. She is not only a best-selling poet and novelist, but she is an educator, actress, filmmaker, and humanitarian. This volume speaks to her extraordinary gift for writing from the heart and lifting the spirit with every graceful word. Each poem in this series is one of inspiration and conviction. They all foster a feeling of pride, confidence, and spirituality.
My personal favorite in this collection is "Still I Rise." I heard this poem for the first time when film and Broadway actress Cicely Tyson visited my college in Murfreesboro, TN back in 2003 and recited it to an auditorium full of hopeful students preparing to tackle the world. That was where my love of Maya Angelou's work began. "Still I Rise" spoke to me as a woman, as a student, and as an American. "Still I Rise" promotes perseverance against life's obstacles, being confident in your own skin and embracing your differences, taking pride in your ancestry, and striving for spiritual richness. She writes in the last two powerful stanzas, "Out of the huts of history's shame/ I rise/ Up from a past that's rooted in pain/ I rise/ I'm a black ocean, leaping in wide/ Welling and swelling I bear in the tide...Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave/ I am the dream and the hope of the slave/ I rise/ I rise/ I rise." This poem is so incredibly inspirational regardless of race, sex, and religion because it is about persevering through obstacles and keeping hope, holding true to yourself and your faith.

The other poems in this collection, "Phenomenal Woman," "Weekend Glory," and "Our Grandmothers" are all rooted with Angelou's wisdom and remarkable gift to inspire. "Phenomenal Woman" is also such a treasure. This poem teaches women to embrace their inner beauty and to have confidence no matter the color of their skin or the shape and size of their bodies. This empowering poem teaches that your most attractive quality others see in you is your confidence. "Men themselves have wondered what they see in me/ They try so much/ But they can't touch/ My inner mystery."

This is a small book, but packs a lot of soul and spirit that transcends beyond race or sex. I highly recommend this amazingly uplifting volume of poetry by Maya Angelou, a truly "phenomenal" woman.

Phenomenal Woman
Maya Angelou's book "Phenomenal Woman" is a celebration of women regardless of race, creed, or color. The poems contained between the covers of this small but powerful book articulate the strength and beauty of womanhood. I display the book on my coffee table along with other books. My twelve year old niece read the book and fell in love with it. She has asked me to buy a copy for her.I will buy a copy for her and my other nieces and nephews.

a jewel
Maya angelou is a jewel. Her poems rich deep inside your spirit. My daughter really enjoys these tapes.

Be Your Own Woman!!
Whether you are tall, thin, heavy, young, old, beautiful, ugly; we are all our own phenomenal woman!!!! Each of us has our own power within ourselves to shine and be our own wonderful person. Maya Angelou's own life, reaches within and brings us to this point with her words. ... Read more

Product Description
Grace, dignity, and eloquence have long been hallmarks of Maya Angelou’s poetry. Her measured verses have stirred our souls, energized our minds, and healed our hearts. Whether offering hope in the darkest of nights or expressing sincere joy at the extraordinariness of the everyday, Maya Angelou has served as our common voice.

Celebrations is a collection of timely and timeless poems that are an integral part of the global fabric. Several works have become nearly as iconic as Angelou herself: the inspiring “On the Pulse of Morning,” read at President William Jefferson Clinton’s 1993 inauguration; the heartening “Amazing Peace,” presented at the 2005 lighting of the National Christmas Tree at the White House; “A Brave and Startling Truth,” which marked the fiftieth anniversary of the United Nations; and “Mother,” which beautifully honors the first woman in our lives. Angelou writes of celebrations public and private, a bar mitzvah wish to her nephew, a birthday greeting to Oprah Winfrey, and a memorial tribute to the late Luther Vandross and Barry White.

More than a writer, Angelou is a chronicler of history, an advocate for peace, and a champion for the planet, as well as a patriot, a mentor, and a friend. To be shared and cherished, the wisdom and poetry of Maya Angelou proves there is always cause for celebration. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Excellent deal for something priceless!
I purchased this CD after having been honored to see her in person this past spring. I knew that I wanted something with her voice on it, unabridged, reading from her own collection. When I saw that there was a choice that spoke of her spiritual world, I was eager and excited! This CD goes into the magical place where she creates, heals and releases her powerful talents and blessings. Get this CD for your kids, your friends, your neighbors... they will be healed, enlightened and empowered.

Maya
A Pillar in life for our times...gracious, lovely and witty..
She always makes you think and see a little clearer.

Good but not my favorite
I am a huge Maya fan but I felt that this was not her best stuff. I liked the poetry but it didn't compare to "Still I Rise" or "Phenomenal Woman". Again, I liked it because Maya doesn't write bad poetry but I wasn't as in love with this collection as I am with her other work.

Infidel
Best book I've read in years. This book gave me a better understanding of Islam and how backward it's follwers are. Just as I beleived I found that the Muslims are still living in a past century and, are a this point unwilling an unable to progress to this century.
Their faith in Muhmmad's teaching's about how to treat women brought tear's to my eyes. Ayann story of her life has put her life in grave danger for speaking out, but her struggle for human right's for Muslin women is nothing short of heroic.

Maya Angelou, another great example of her work...
This book is another example of the heart in Maya Angelou. Another "beautiful" set of her work. I highly recommend this book of prayers to all Maya Angelou's fans. A Must have for your collection... ... Read more

Product Description
Visionary full-color artwork accompanies a stirring poem--by the famed inaugural poet and author of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings--that celebrates courage, strength, and fearlessness. All ages. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

Serious art, serious poetry...a one-two punch!
I love Jean-Michel Basquiat, and I love Maya Angelou. I teach elementary art, and I can't wait to incorporate this book into my curriculum.

LIFE Doesn't Frighten ME
Life Doesn't Frighten Me

Maya Angelou is one of my favorite writers.She has a unique writing style and has made a great impact in American Literature.Adults and children will enjoy reading this book.The message in this book is to over come our fears of gender bias or any fear that we may have in life.This book is a fabulous teaching tool!

an AMAZING book
i buy this book for everyone! it is filled with beautiful art by Basquiat and a beautiful poem about life by Maya Angelou.I feel all can relate to this story and feel better about life when listening to it.

Wonderful
I read this book to my inner city 3rd graders and it really helps them deal with struggles and write their own poems.

Confidence-inspiring poem for kids
Great for reading out loud to a child, discussing in a class, or for use in a children's poetry therapy group to focus on bravery. The illustrations are a great addition to the poem. ... Read more

Product Description
“ANGELS AND Mortals, Believers and Nonbelievers, look heavenward,” Maya Angelou writes, “and speak the word aloud. Peace.” Angelou’s moving poem is a radiant affirmation of the goodness of humanity. First read at the 2005 White House tree-lighting ceremony, it comes alive again as a fully illustrated children’s book, celebrating the promise of peace in the holiday season. In this simple story, a family joins with their community—rich and poor, black and white, Muslim and Jew—to celebrate the holidays. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

Maya Angelou at her best
I have given this little book as a Christmas present for the past several years with the request that the recipients read it and pass the gift on to someone else.The world needs this piece (peace) and you will feel a deep sense of purpose after reading it.

A Christmas Poem More for Adults
Maya Angelou's Amazing Peace: A Christmas Poem is an inspirational holiday tale worded more for adults than children. It is especially moving during these troubling days of hardship, terror, and war. This reviewer found it easier to summarize the poem's mystical theme as it affected him.

In the stillness of a winter night when darkness covers earth at an early hour, we dress warmly to walk with our children to a community gathering in a nearby market square. A fresh snow falls over that which crunches under each footstep. We look about. See! Back there behind us, a man plays his sax--peaceful, quiet Christmas carols; and over there, children enjoy the moment as they finish their snowman then join with their parents to enter our quiet procession.

As we pass by homes, brightly lit decorations inside and outside display, for all to see, the wish residents hold in their hearts. It is a hope that for this one night at least, amazing peace can reign here and throughout the world. And when we reach town hall, we meet our beloved friends. Our flickering candle flames light our faces: the old, the young; dark skin, light skin. We have come to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and his message of peace for our world. We eat together; we sing together; we talk together. Our hearts want this joyous covenant of peace to last forever.

We, the Jew and the Jainist, the Catholic and the Confucian, implore you to stay a while with us ... we, Baptist and Buddhist, Methodist and Muslim, say come.

I would recommend Amazing Peace: A Christmas Poem to any person who is seeking a spiritual boost, saddened by the lack of peace in today's world. If the book is purchased for children, I'd hope the poem is read to them so that unfamiliar words and ideas can be clarified as needed; for example, "We interrogate and worry God ... does the covenant you made with us still hold?"

Maya Angelou's carefully chosen words and her book's stirring pictures prompt images of peace and quiet in one's soul. I found myself reading Amazing Peace: A Christmas Poem several times just to enjoy the feeling of walking as one with the people in the pictures.

Other fascinating reads:
A Rocky Mountain Christmas: Yuletide Stories of the West
The Journey Home
The Lake That Stole Children: A Fable

very good
Maya Angelou is very gifted so anything she writes is wonderful to read but by including a CD of HER reading the story, it provides a wonderful opportunity for youngsters to get to know that most fantastic voice!!

Courtesy of Kids @ Teens Read Too
Maya Angelou, world-renowned poet, philanthropist, and humanitarian, brings to vivid life the true meaning of Christmas.Her poems are not the simple rhyming ones of many children's books, but rather a meshing of words that go straight to the heart.

"Come and fill us and our world with your majesty.
We, the Jew and the Jainist, the Catholic and the Confucian,
Implore you to stay awhile with us
So we may learn by your shimmering light
How to look beyond complexion and see community.

It is Christmas time, a halting of hate time.

On this platform of peace, we can create a language
To translate ourselves to ourselves and to each other."

Although this is a perfect book to share with your children at Christmas, I believe it would make an excellent addition to your home library to share as a family, again and again, no matter the time of year.The message that it sends - one of love, tolerance, diversity, and peace - is one that all children can learn from, regardless of the date on the calendar.

Reviewed by:Jennifer Wardrip, aka "The Genius"

Beautiful Book
This is a beautiful combination of art.The words and pictures create a beautiful message of peace and equality. ... Read more

Product Description
Maya Angelou is hailed as one of the great voices of contemporary literature, having authored twelve best-selling books, including I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. In this slim volume the legendary wisdom of this American poet, educator, historian, actress, director, and civil-rights activist is clearly evident in her own words. Editor Henry French selects forty inspiring passages for readers to ponder while taking a spiritual journey with Maya Angelou. Such a journey may be made at any time but, as with other titles in the 40-Day Journey series, is especially inspiring to take in the seasons of Advent and Lent. ... Read more