In I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings, Maya Angelou writes of her coming of age while dealing with racism, parental problems, and her own insecurities. Throughout this book, Angelou accurately depicts the struggles children often face on their journey to adulthood while simultaneously reflecting on her own childhood memories.

Set in Stamps, Arkansas, Angelou’s memories revolve around her as young black girl growing up in the racist South. A child determined to accomplish great things, Angelou writes of the defining moments in a person’s life that reveal true character. It is through such moments that Angelou became a strong, independent woman capable of responding to prejudice.

Throughout the book Angelou writes of heavy topics such as racism and the abuse she suffered as a child. Although these topics provide better insight into her life, they distract young readers from the true meaning and beauty of the book. The heavy metaphors and ‘Southern speech’ may prove to be confusing to the author’s younger audience.

 I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings is noted for her vivid character descriptions and strong narrative. If you appreciate reading about Southern culture and the civil rights movement you will enjoy this book.