Plot Overview: Maya Angelou recounts her life in both the American South and, later, in San Francisco. She recalls the traumatic experiences that she went through throughout her young life, including sexual assault and racism.

Critique: I really loved this book. Maya Angelou is one of my favorite poets so I had pretty high expectations going into this book, and I was not disappointed. The turbulence of Angelou’s young life is depicted very vividly and it’s easy to feel strongly for her pain and loss. It’s largely a book of hope though, and it’s inspiring to read about Angelou rising above her trauma. I’ll definitely be reading her subsequent autobiographies in the future.

Favorite quote: “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”

Cover Critique: There’s actually many different covers for this book, but I specifically chose this one because I think it encapsulates the themes of freedom and recovery present throughout the novel.

Star Rating: 5/5