This entire collection is truly what initiated my love for reading.

The writing within it is so captivating, the emotions so palpable, the hope so inspiring, and the journey so engaging. She filled my confused and lost 20-year-old heart with an abundance of love and hope that it literally transformed my life.

Anytime I find myself doubting my abilities or feeling as if time is slipping away from me, I always think about Maya. How she managed to achieve so much despite going against the grain and not setting any limitations for herself. Her longing for true love, which is the same as mine, and her way of expressing it all. She inspired me to be unapologetically myself and to embrace all experiences that come my way.

Because I had never before felt this kind of hope, support, and emotions in my life, especially not from a book, I continuously searched for more books that could have the same profound impact on me. She not only started my love of reading but also helped me to realize and encourage so many other aspects of myself that I would have otherwise drowned or ignored. Thank you, Maya. ❤️

Years have passed, and countless books have come and gone, but this collection remains my all-time favorite series or books.

(A close second is Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi.)

The caged bird sings

with a fearful trill

of things unknown

but longed for still

and his tune is heard

on the distant hill

for the caged bird

sings of freedom.

- I know why the caged bird sings.

Marguerite Ann Johnson's autobiography is truly one of the most authentic accounts I have ever encountered. It lays out in the open her triumphs and missteps as she delves into her identity as a Black woman and discovers her place in the world. It is replete with inspiring and powerful life lessons.

Reading about her life experiences has been both highly entertaining and deeply thought-provoking simultaneously.

This remarkable woman's life story is very much worthy of recommendation.

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

― Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou's writing is truly remarkable. It is not just about the story itself, but rather it delves deep into the power of words and her profound thoughts.

She is an amazing real woman who has left an indelible mark on the literary world. Her works have been an inspiration to countless individuals, myself included.

As I read about her life, I became completely engrossed. I was captivated by her experiences, her struggles, and her triumphs.

It was a bittersweet moment when I finished reading, as I felt a sense of sadness that her story had come to an end.

However, I was also filled with a newfound determination to do more than I think I can, just like she did. Maya Angelou's words will continue to resonate with me and inspire me on my own journey.

I couldn't get into it.

Maybe it was because I was the audible.

Gonna try the book instead.

I really wanted to like this thing, whatever it was. But for some reason, I just couldn't seem to connect with it.

I thought maybe it was because I was using the audible version. Sometimes, when you listen to something instead of reading it, you might miss out on certain details or nuances.

So, I've decided to give the book a try. I'm hoping that by reading it myself, I'll be able to understand it better and really get into the story or the subject matter.

I'm looking forward to seeing if this change makes a difference and if I'll finally be able to enjoy whatever it is that I couldn't get into before.

Feasting through Maya's colourful narrative was an absolute pleasure.

Her life story is not only interesting but also extremely full, filled with a rich tapestry of experiences and emotions.

I found myself constantly eager to know more, my curiosity piqued at every turn.

This intense desire for knowledge made it remarkably easy to breeze through the six volumes in a relatively short period of time.

Each page seemed to hold a new adventure or revelation, drawing me deeper into Maya's world.

It was as if I was on a journey with her, experiencing her joys and sorrows, her triumphs and failures.

The vividness of her descriptions and the authenticity of her voice made the entire reading experience truly immersive and engaging.

I can't wait to explore more of her works and continue this wonderful literary journey.

Excellent!

I truly loved the narration. It was so engaging and captivating from start to finish. The way the story was told had me on the edge of my seat, eager to know what would happen next.

The narrator's voice was clear and expressive, bringing the characters and the events to life. It was as if I was right there in the middle of the action, experiencing everything along with them.

Each word and sentence was carefully crafted to create a vivid and immersive experience. I found myself completely absorbed in the story, unable to tear myself away.

This narration was a true masterpiece, and I can't wait to listen to more like it. It has left a lasting impression on me and has made me a fan of this particular narrator.

Overall, I would highly recommend this narration to anyone looking for an entertaining and engaging listen. It's definitely worth the time and effort.

I really enjoyed this book.

It is not only good but also highly informative as it offers a distinct perspective on life, which is derived from the experiences of another person.

The author has done an excellent job in presenting these unique insights.

Her writing style is engaging and makes it easy for the readers to connect with the story and the ideas being presented.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a thought-provoking read that can offer a new and different way of looking at life.

She is truly a talented author, and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.

I used to teach "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings", and I was constantly moved and inspired by it.

Moreover, the way my students reacted to it also had a profound impact on me.

Eventually, I made up my mind to take action and read the rest of her autobiographies.

Oh my goodness!!! This woman is truly extraordinary in an amazing way.

Did you know that she used to be involved in pimping lesbian whores?

These books are extremely fascinating and offer a unique perspective into her life and experiences.

They provide a deeper understanding of her as a person and the events that shaped her.

Reading her autobiographies is like embarking on a journey through a complex and captivating world.

It is a testament to her courage, strength, and the power of her writing.

I highly recommend these books to anyone interested in literature, history, or the human experience.

They are sure to leave a lasting impression and inspire readers to look at the world from a different perspective.

What can be said about all the Autobiographies of Maya in one tome?

It is truly remarkable. Her writing is not only witty but also beautifully crafted. It has the power to stir the soul and bring a smile to your face with its humor, all at once.

I had the pleasure of previously reading "Caged Bird" and "All God's Children," but to have them all together in one volume is simply marvelous.

The many twists and turns her life took are a testament to her strength and resilience. She was indeed a Women Phenomenal.

Her autobiographies offer a unique and intimate look into her life, filled with love, loss, struggle, and triumph. They are a must-read for anyone interested in the human experience and the power of the written word.

Maya's story is one that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page, inspiring you to be true to yourself and to never give up on your dreams.

Maya Angelou is truly an extraordinary woman!

When I heard of her passing, I immediately knew I had to explore her autobiographies. I had read "I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings" years ago, but it never crossed my mind to pick up her other works. I am truly saddened that I didn't do so earlier.

I'm actually glad I chose her collected autobiographies. She accomplished so much in her life, and reading them as a whole allowed her story to flow more smoothly.

I loved seeing her life unfold up until the point where she began writing "I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings". Her life was filled with events! However, at times, it did become a bit tedious, especially with "All God's Children Need Traveling Shoes" and "A Song Flung Up To Heaven". Overall, it was definitely a marathon. By the time I reached her last two books, I was kind of ready to be done. They were interesting, and I don't want to undermine that, but I also wish I had taken more time with them.

It's easy to see how she became the person she was. She is definitely a survivor, always landing on her own two feet, regardless of what came her way. I was quite surprised by some of the things I read, like her running a brothel, traveling the world (and even making an effort to learn the language of every country she visited), and working for both Malcolm X and Martin Luther King, Jr. She is truly an inspiration, and we are so lucky that she shared her story with us.

She really has a way with words. There were times when I forgot I was reading an autobiography. Her writing is very poetic, and she has a way of making you feel like she's telling you a story.

Let's Rate It: I feel so honored to have read Maya Angelou's story. After reading her autobiographies, I feel like I understand her world so much better, and I really regret taking so long to do so! Reading them as one collective work was challenging, especially with her last couple of autobiographies, but I also liked seeing her life as a whole. Her Collected Autobiographies deserve 4 stars.

There are simply no words within my vocabulary that I can pen down which will do full justice to this remarkable book. It is a literary masterpiece that defies easy description and analysis.

Every page is filled with such depth, such profound insights, and such captivating storytelling that it leaves the reader in awe.

To truly understand the essence and beauty of this book, one must take the leap of faith and read it for oneself.

If you have the courage, if you dare to embark on this literary journey, you will be rewarded with an experience like no other.

So, don't hesitate. Pick up this book and let it transport you to a world of wonder and discovery.

Angelou was truly one of my saviors during my childhood. On the pages of her works, she served as a guiding adult, someone who tirelessly tried to point the way for me. Her words were like beacons in the darkness, shining a light on the path I should take. I would lose myself in her stories, finding comfort and inspiration. She had this unique ability to touch my heart and soul, making me feel understood and not alone. Her writing was a source of strength for me, giving me the courage to face the challenges that came my way. I am forever grateful to Angelou for being there for me when I needed her the most.