Even though Dr. Angelou herself and many around Arkansas cite this state as her home, Maya Angelou was not actually born in Arkansas. She was born in St. Louis, Missouri to Bailey and Vivian Baxter Johnson on April 4, 1928. She was soon brought to Arkansas and was raised in Stamps. In her novels she paints vivid pictures of rural Arkansas, Africa and life.
1) "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings"
This is the first of five chronicles of Maya's life. This one is required reading for any Arkansas student, however it's still my favorite of the autobiographies. The setting is Stamps, AR. If you haven't read it, you should.
2) "On the Pulse of Morning"
This poem was written for the inauguration of President Bill Clinton. After it's reading it quickly became a bestseller.
3) "The Complete Collected Poems of Maya Angelou"
This book contains all of Maya Angelou's published poetry: Just Give Me A Cool Drink of Water 'fore I Diiie (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 the 1993 inaugural poem On the Pulse of Morning._z_littlerock_z_);
4) "Still I Rise"
This is one of my favorite pieces of poetry. It celebrates victory from tragedy and the courage of the human spirit. We have a power within us all. This poem can help you find it.
5) "A Brave and Startling Truth"
This poem was read to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations.
6) "Even the Stars Look Lonesome"
This is Maya's most recent work. It is a collection of short essays about Maya's life, family and stories. She has had many hardships in her life but through it all she's kept a sense of humor and awe that shine through these short pieces.
7) "The Heart of a Woman"
This is an autobiography that isn't based in Arkansas. The majority of the story takes place in New York. Maya struggles to raise her young son in the face of racial tension and a tumultuous love life.
8) "Wouldn't Take Nothing for My Journey Now"
This is another collection of short essays on Maya's thoughts and life. It was first published in 1993.
9) "Gather Together in My Name"
This autobiography covers Maya's life from the age of sixteen to nineteen. During this period she gives birth to a son, works as a prostitute, waitress, dancer and meets many young men who want to lead her down the wrong path. She struggles with sex, love and the racial prejudices of the 1940s.
10) "Life Doesn't Frighten Me"
This is a poem for kids ages 4-8. It teaches people of any age to have confidence in themselves.
