4.28 AVERAGE


So... I recently saw a post on FB or somewhere about the "300 must-read books". It was and interesting list because, although it was very American-lit slanted, it was composed of a variety of genres and eras. At the time, I had already read 76, and this was "next" to read. I was apprehensive as it is not a genre I typically enjoy, but wow...

I am SO glad I did. Although I cannot relate as much as some, I felt a strong connection to American history and am heartened by how far we've come as much as I'm horrified by how far we have to go. It helped me understand more of what is going on today and to feel even more strongly that everyone has a part in ending racism or sexism or any of the -isms.

I can't eloquently explain how this book has affected me, and I hope that more of the general populace read this one with an open mind.
adventurous dark emotional inspiring slow-paced

Maya Angelou’s "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" is a beautifully written autobiography that features a mix of riveting and dull moments. While some sections are captivating with their raw honesty and lyrical prose, others can feel tedious, particularly the frequent references to church and spirituality.

Angelou tackles heavy themes such as molestation, racism, and resilience, providing valuable insights, especially for younger readers. However, I found the church-related content to be somewhat repetitive and less engaging. Despite appreciating the powerful storytelling and the depth of her experiences, I’m not inclined to read the subsequent six volumes. This first installment offers thought-provoking and educational moments, but it may not resonate with everyone throughout its entirety.
emotional inspiring slow-paced
emotional hopeful reflective sad fast-paced

I always knew Maya Angelou was a great writer but never, until now sat down and read one of her books. I'm also usually about memoirs. This book was fantastic! Maya's excellent writing captured her childhood in a way that nobody else could. Yes, there are some sad, emotional moments but the story of her life is so beautiful and worth a read.
dark emotional reflective medium-paced
emotional reflective slow-paced

It took me a little bit to get into it, but once I did I enjoyed it. She had a lot of good quotable thoughts and I wish I had read it slower rather than rushing through it as I think I would have got a lot more out of it.
emotional medium-paced

Honestly wish this was something I had read a bit younger or for a class that could further discuss the author’s impact! Also think this suffered from me/the point in my life I’m at (aka the chaos of moving and starting a new job) so a book that was more vignettes and not plot heavy didn’t mesh well or keep my attention as much as usual. Also maybe if I had read it rather than audiobooked it I would have appreciated the lyrical writing more. More a case of right book, wrong time!

beautiful, beautiful!
I feel bad it took me so long to read this, but work wouldn't let me be free.