Maya Angelou possessed an extraordinary command of language that compelled her readers to reflect deeply and critically on societal norms and injustices. Through her poignant storytelling, she vividly portrays the transformative journey of a young girl blossoming into a woman while navigating a landscape filled with various painful obstacles. Rather than allowing these challenges to define her identity or dictate her future, she embraced them as opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Angelou skillfully illustrates how her experiences and the diverse relationships she cultivated taught her invaluable lessons about the world around her. Each interaction, whether it was uplifting or challenging, served as a mirror, reflecting the complexities of human nature and society. Ultimately, her narrative is not just a personal journey of resilience but also a powerful exploration of how to engage with the world meaningfully and authentically. This masterfully crafted journey captivates the reader, offering insights that resonate long after the final page is turned.

i don’t really know how to rate autobiographies because it feels like i’m rating someone’s lived experience. that being said this book was quite good especially because i audiobooked it with angelou’s narration 

it was touching, reflective, and gave a window into a life i never could have known otherwise. i have no experience with angelou besides learning about her in school and probably reading a poem or two at some point. i hope to read more of her books and learn more of her activism going forward 

It’s hard to believe all of this happened to one person in under 18 years. The book offers a truly fascinating account of an interesting life, vividly capturing the experience of a Black girl growing up in the U.S. South during the twentieth century.

As for the writing style, it took me some time to finish the book. The way certain elements of the story were woven together and the pacing of how long each aspect was explored could have been improved in places.

Maya Angelou had a WILD and ROUGH childhood. The book that prompted me to read this says: "Angelou evokes the harshness of black southern life with also recalling good times and bringing to life the people who played a role in her early years." I couldn't have said it better myself! I also really like Angelou's writing style and metaphors/similes to tell her story to the world. There are quite a few uncomfortable moments throughout the book, however I think it's still a very important read!

hard hitting and eloquent