Promotional Information

* Succinct pieces of prose - unique lessons in living from one of our best-loved writers, Maya Angelou

About the Author

Born in 1928 in Missouri, Maya Angelou has been a waitress, singer, dancer, acticist and actress. Her five volumes of autobiography and complete poetry collection are published by Virago.

Reviews

'She has the knack of guiding us along the seamier side of life while making us feel refreshed and restored like a terrific gospel blues singer' GUARDIAN

'She has the knack of guiding us along the seamier side of life while making us feel refreshed and restored like a terrific gospel blues singer' GUARDIAN

YA-Morality, manners, friendships, and love are a sampling of the subjects covered by renowned playwright and poet. Students will contemplate the art of the essay as well as the wisdom of the woman in these pithy, candid pieces that are taken from her own experiences. Funny, sad, or poignant, they all make a plea for tolerance and understanding. Angelou's command of the English language is exceeded only by her love of humanity.-Jackie Gropman, Kings Park Library, Burke, VA

In this small gem of a book, Angelou, the popular poet and novelist ( All God's Children Need Traveling Shoes , LJ 3/15/86, among others), shares her thoughts about humankind: how to respect others of different cultures, opinions, and values as taught by universal philosophies. Annie Johnson in ``New Directions'' and Aunt Tee in ``Living Well, Living Good'' are just some of the characters Angelou uses throughout to illustrate with precision and color the respect and perseverance she values. The narratives are carefully constructed with exhilarating assurance as the reader makes the transformative journey from what she is to what she must finally be. Angelou's prose is brisk, fluid, and entrancing. This work will provide a taste of wisdom to all who read it. Highly recommended.-- Gayle S. Leach-Bethea, Maryland House of Corrections, Jessup