Women's History Month's Feature: Maya Angelou, Poet, Writer, and Civil Rights Activist

Hello book lovers! In celebration of Women’s History Month, I would like to present to you my all-time favorite female author, Maya Angelou (real name Marguerite Ann Johnson). She graced the world through her poetry, essays, autobiographies and a list of plays, movies and television shows that spanned over 50 years. Throughout her life and in her creative works she dealt with issues of economic, social, racial and sexual oppression. I loved that she was also a civil rights activist who was vocal in bringing these issues to light.

I was introduced to her work in college when I had to write an essay about her first autobiography, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and I was hooked. Since then, I have read the majority of her autobiographies and her poetry which are lyrical, poignant, powerful, and still lift us up. "Still I Rise" and "Phenomenal Woman" are two of my favorite poems. Although she is gone, she will definitely not be forgotten for the trailblazer that she was (1928 – 2014).

Writing Tip: When writing an autobiography remember to pick the best and memorable stories that will resonate and pull readers in! Maya certainly had a way with inviting readers to pull up a chair and share in her stories about her life. #womenshistorymonth #womenwriters #mayaangelou #poet #writer #actress #dancer #singer #civilrightsactivist #creativeworks #stillirise #phenomenalwoman #TENation

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