Maya Angelou, one of the best-loved authors of our time shares the wisdom of a remarkable life in this bestselling spiritual classic. This is Maya Angelou talking from the heart, down to earth and real, but also inspiring. This is a book to be treasured, a book about being in all ways a woman, about living well, about the power of the word, and about the power of spirituality to move and shape your life. Passionate, lively, and lyrical, Maya Angelou’s latest unforgettable work offers a gem of truth on every page. Maya Angelou speaks out . . . On Faith: “I'm taken aback when people walk up to me and tell me they are Christians. My first response is the question 'Already?' It seems to me a lifelong endeavor to try to live the life of a Christian. It is in the search itself that one finds ecstasy.” On Racism: “It is time for parents to teach young people early on that in diversity there is beauty and there is strength. We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter their color.” On Taking Time for Ourselves: “Each person deserves a day away in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for. Each of us needs to withdraw from the cares which will not withdraw from us. A day away acts as a spring tonic. It can dispel rancor, transform indecision, and renew the spirit.” On Death and Grieving: “When I sense myself filling with rage at the absence of a beloved, I try as soon as possible to remember that my concerns should be focused on what I can learn from my departed love. What legacy was left which can help me in the art of living a good life?” On Style: “Style is as unique and nontransferable and perfectly personal as a fingerprint. It is wise to take the time to develop one's own way of being, increasing those things one does well and eliminating the elements in one's character which can hinder and diminish the good personality.”
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"This is fabulous. I was given this as a gift nearly 20 years ago when I was still in my teens, and just re-read it recently. Full of essays and prose about womanhood, bravery, kindness and confidence. This was my introduction to Maya Angelou, and reading it the second time was as wonderful of an experience as reading it the first time. You can hear her voice - wise and soothing - as you read it, which is an added treat. This is an excellent gift for a woman of any age, especially for a young woman. Curl up with Maya, a cup of coffee or a glass of wine anytime you want to feel a little more connected to all that you are, or connected to the wonderful women in your life."
— Patti (4 out of 5 stars)
" Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! Excellent! "
— Maya, 9/27/2017" Liked this book by Maya Angelou. It was filled with short essays about her experiences and about women. The snippets she provided about her own life picqued my interest to the point that I might see if she has a bio or autobio out there. Update: she has 6 autobiographies. Guess I'll start with 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings'. "
— Anna, 2/19/2014" I read it often. I read it slowly as if I'm trying to memorize it. "
— Annie, 2/8/2014" Small little paperback that can be read in a two hours. I have never read anything by Maya Angelou so I decided to read it. I think she is a great writer and very introspective. I took some great notes from the book. More tailored and directed towards women. "
— Chris, 12/25/2013" Ummm..The book is basically her philosophy about life. But, there is no plot or anything, no story, and doesn't really fit with the title. I really don't get it. I liked some of the quotes. The only reason I picked it up was because it was "maya angelou" who was supposed to be a great author. Maybe she is, and I can see that she knows how to use poetic words and metaphors beautifully, but this book just did not work. I'm sorry, I just wouldn't recommend it, unless you are in some sort of philosophy class and discussing chapter by chapter what it "means' "
— Melissa, 12/12/2013" I really love reading Maya Angelou. This book was a birthday present from my daughter in 1994. I was 48, she was 29. "
— Judy, 12/5/2013" I liked this book, because I respect anything Maya Angelou has to say. But my favorite parts are when she speaks of her grandmother, who I find to be a profound woman with a lot of that old time wisdom that so many women lack these days. This was enjoyable to read, I just wish it was longer. "
— Diana, 11/22/2013" This book is both nourishing and encouraging. "
— Alethea, 11/21/2013" got me through the finalization of the divorce "
— Ruhegeist, 11/9/2013" Poet Laurette Maya Angelou's thoughts and wisdom. "
— Tammy, 10/14/2013" Maya Angelou has offered a book full of insight and wisdom. I really enjoyed reading this book. "
— Dolly, 10/14/2013" Very inspirational, for anyone who needs a reminder that trials in life are lessons we are meant to learn.... "
— Amy, 9/24/2013" This amazing collection of mini-essays (most are two-three pages long), provide tremendous wisdom and insight by a woman with a strong voice and keen sensibilities who helps to illuminate that which makes us human. "
— Sue, 9/24/2013" My first Maya book. It makes me want to read more. "
— Cesposito316, 8/22/2013" In her wise and free form style, Maya Angelou, again, paints pictures of life with their many lessons and implications. Not one to ever let an opportunity to pass, this author is a true Teacher. "
— Debra, 8/14/2013" Beautiful. With a few words Maya Angelou speaks the truth with humility, wit and humor. "
— Deborah, 7/18/2013" Easy to read in stops and starts because of the incredibly short sections that read like a combination of personal anecdotes with a moral at the end. They're less op-ed and more 'Here's what I know for sure' to take a page out of Oprah's magazine. "
— Jessica, 7/12/2013" This was a very quick read with a lot of great life advice. I could hear Maya telling me these things in her wonderful voice. I highly recommend it to one and all. "
— Kris, 6/25/2013" I'm not a fan of advice books, even if it's Maya Angelou's. What kept me reading were the little stories she's slip into her rhetoric. And her beautiful writing of course. And it was a short book. "
— Leah, 6/21/2013" I thought it was insightful. "
— Candra, 6/16/2013" Shared this book w/my Aunt. Angelou's writings remind me of beautiful quilts; very poetic, bold in color, and detailed. Highly recommended read! "
— Kam, 5/10/2013" Little anecdotes and musings, stories and recollections of situations and life from the poetic Maya Angelou. I read it in one sitting during my break at a Barnes and Noble. Her writing always makes me feel less alone in this life. "
— Ad, 3/20/2013" A wonderful short book, perfect to give as graduation gifts. In a time when religion is not politically correct, Maya Angelou gives us timeless tips on living life to the fullest. Grandmotherly, encouraging and uplifting. "
— Luckngrace, 12/18/2012" now i'm being generous. this book made me wanna DIE. "
— RK, 12/10/2012" part of the autobiographical series, so good! "
— Emily, 9/19/2012" I love anything that she has had a hand in. "
— Joyce, 7/10/2012" Those who are familiar with the intriguing stories about Maya Angelou will absolutely be pleased by this book. A continuation of the life of Maya Angelou, this book will captivate the writer with each word read. "
— Babydoll, 8/14/2011" Maya Angelou is always inspiring for women at any age. "
— Jacquie, 6/30/2011" Maya Angelou has shared some simple lessons to assist us with various part of everyday life. She keeps it simple and keeps it real. Great words of wisdom!! "
— Suzy, 5/22/2011" My go-to book when I need to set my head straight "
— Patty, 5/13/2011" Shared this book w/my Aunt. Angelou's writings remind me of beautiful quilts; very poetic, bold in color, and detailed. Highly recommended read! "
— Kam, 2/3/2011" Little anecdotes and musings, stories and recollections of situations and life from the poetic Maya Angelou. I read it in one sitting during my break at a Barnes and Noble. Her writing always makes me feel less alone in this life. "
— Ad, 1/28/2011" Simple tone and remarkable thoughts. My first reading of Maya Angelou and I'm very happy I didn't miss this. "
— Indu, 12/8/2010" Amazing pearls of wisdom!! A must read for Maya Angelou fans! "
— TruEssence, 10/12/2010" a book of short essays on life from a wonderfully gifted writer and observer of humans. "
— Robin, 7/30/2010" Maya helped me to accept my life's Journey and embrace life with an open heart and mind. Learning to accept those where they are with no judgements. "
— Beth, 6/24/2010" Each little thought can be read on its own and I'd rate the little chapters from 2 stars to 5. I have it on my nightstand for quick inspirational reads. "
— April, 4/3/2010" A quick read with short but thought provoking chapters on life and learning. "
— Danielle, 4/3/2010" I've read it before and it is just as good now as then. "
— Cecelia, 2/6/2010Maya Angelou (1928–2014) was a singer, actress, dancer, activist, filmmaker, writer, and mother. In addition to her bestselling autobiographies she wrote several volumes of poetry, including “On the Pulse of the Morning” for the inauguration of President Clinton. She was given a lifetime appointment as Reynolds Professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University in North Carolina, and in 2010 President Barack Obama awarded her the Medal of Freedom, the country’s highest civilian honor.