Even though it’s been nearly 11 years since Maya Angelou died, I’m pretty sure it was only recently that I finished reading anything she wrote.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (Ballantine Books, 1969) is her famous memoir.
It baffles me that it is on some banned book lists for sexual content, racism and violence. Yes, those things are in the book, but not gratuitously. They are there because they are part of her life experiences.
If people don’t like these topics, then work to teach men not to molest and rape; teach people not to be racists.
I don’t understand why young people aren’t supposed to read the truth. The truth that men rape children and prejudice against Black people exists. My goodness, we are one screwed up world.
Yes, what she writes about are tough, gritty subjects. But so what? Life isn’t all sunshine and flowers. Why should someone’s life story be banned?
This isn’t a book all about doom and gloom, and horrible experiences. It’s about life. There is plenty of joy in it. It’s about survival. It’s also about hope. It’s a true coming of age book.
Angelou is well known for her poetry. Her prose is lyrical as well. She draws you in, makes you feel like you are a real witness to the circumstances taking place on the pages. This will at times make you squirm and smile.
Angelou is well known for her poetry. Her prose is lyrical as well.
I only wish I would have read it sooner.
Age appropriateness is a worthy discussion that parents should be given.
I read this book and several others in high school but it was offered among a list of dozens of books that I could choose from. All I had to do was get my parents permission on the few selections that were deemed “controversial”, which I was able to do.
I was ready for the content as a junior in high school but I honestly don’t think my parents would’ve signed it if I’ve been a freshman. I believe that that’s their prerogative.
Having raised two sons of my own and now five grandkids here with me in town, I still like having the final say on what they’re going to be exposed to and at what age.
I in no way think that deciding to allow for a proper time to read some material, inhibits their ability to be respectful and informed citizens as adults. For the record, I did teach my sons to respect women and girls, as if their life counted on it and I also told them one day they might have to put their life on the line to protect them and as for racism? We talked about this all the time and it wasn’t just white on black or brown racism. It was also reverse racism because I encountered much of that growing up myself. I believe many parents are still willing to do the job of training their children well. Schools by in large can enhance and develop this societal education. As the Byrds sang, “ there is a time for every season.”
Respectfully.