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Title:	I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
Authors:	Angelou, Maya
Genre:	Non Fiction
Pages:	281
Year:	1969
Language:	English
Description:	An African-American poet's memories of her childhood in the American South and early youth in North America. Angelou is one of the most honoured writers of her generation, being awarded over 30 honorary degrees and nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. Comments from Groups: The group found this book very interesting, and most want to find out what happened next in the life of this very intriguing woman. The account of her childhood gave a very clear insight into the history, which was unknown to some of us; an eye-opener. Christchurch 068 Some loved it, others not, but we did have a very good discussion - more about racism as applies to NZ. Nelson 046 Some of the group thought the book a little slow, however the setting and context gave us great insight into 'black' life during the 1930s, and the powerful forces at work in American society. We felt that the language was beautifully descriptive - placing us directly in the scene.... Carterton 001 Some felt it was a literary lightweight, more of a diary. Others were quite enthralled by the story of a young black woman's struggle to attain her place in a world with the odds so stacked against her! Picton 002 We felt great sympathy for Maya Angelou and her generation of black girls in the southern States of USA, but also profound admiration for her skill as an author. Akaroa 001
Categories:	Non fiction, Biography, Culture/Ethnic/Racial, USA, Blind Low Vision library

Reviews

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By: OTAKI 001		2024-08-07 13:08:18

Great writing, although at times a bit loquacious. Well drawn characterisation of some strong women.

By: WHANG 022		2023-06-21 12:50:40

Most people loved it - a couple found it a little slow.

By: GOVER 005		2022-09-10 15:25:54

We felt a little disappointed with this. Love her other books, but this seemed to lack direction and seemed a string of memories rather than a cohesive work.

By: WELL 117		2022-05-27 16:19:34

Sparked an excellent discussion. All felt it was very worthwhile book to read, and most will follow up other work by the same author.

By: TAUR 043		2022-05-27 16:18:05

Thoroughly enjoyed by many members of the group. A few, though, found it difficult to read - writing style and identification with the main character. All found the issues raised were real, and described the enormous pain of racism, poverty, sexism and violence. A remarkable woman.

By: ROTO 002		2022-05-27 16:15:32

We loved the book and her writing. We talked about her other publications, and a member read some of her poetry. We are all in awe of her cleverness, strength and artistry in writing. Such a moving account of her life.

By: MOTUE 003		2022-05-27 16:12:18

Really well-written. Some found the subject quite stressful, but appreciated how well it was written.

By: AUCK 408		2022-05-27 16:10:33

Very interesting, and at times harrowing. Most of the group left curious to read more of her story in subsequent memoirs.

By: CHCH 515		2022-05-11 13:26:00

Good book from a great and famous author. Some parts were very detailed and some were skipped over quickly. Interesting family life.

By: WELL 221		2021-08-27 13:55:28

It's a gripping heartfelt description of the harsh reality growing up as a black person in America, in a so called democratic society. It's high time these stories were told.

By: ROTO 002		2019-11-13 11:24:45

We loved the book and her writing. We talked about her other publications, and a member read some of her poetry. We are in awe of her cleverness, strength, and artistry in writing. Such a moving account of her life.

By: INVER 017		2019-05-24 14:52:09

Most of the group enjoyed the book and appreciated the quality of the writing. A lively discussion with diverse opinions.

By: NORTH 003		2019-05-24 14:42:21

Interesting and thought provoking. Discussion went very well.

By: AUCK 347		2019-05-24 14:41:46

The group really enjoyed this book. Quite poetically written.

By: CHCH 403		2019-05-24 14:40:14

An easy read, however the remoteness of the story telling was a little surprising. Almost like a narration of someone else's story. Themes of oppression, rape etc, described with not much emotion. Mixed opinions in the group.

By: WHAKA 002		2019-05-24 14:38:10

Fabulous! We all loved it. For most of the group it was re-uniting with an old friend. For those who hadn't read Angelou before it was an inspiration.

By: CHCH 009		2019-05-24 14:35:29

Very lively discussion. One person did not like the book, but upon hearing everyone's opinions, changed her mind.

Catalogue

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Reviews