I KNOW WHY THE CAGED BIRD SINGS. by Angelou, Maya - (1969).

New York:: Random House. (1969).. First edition of the author's first book. INSCRIBED by Angelou on the half-title page, "Cuthbert . . . Joy! Maya Angleou 5/2007 No. Carolina." Angelou was challenged by her friend, author James Baldwin, and her editor, Robert Loomis, to write an autobiography that was also a piece of literature. And that she did. This, her first volume of autobiography, illustrates how strength of character can help one overcome racism and trauma. The book begins when three-year-old Maya and her older brother are sent to Stamps, Arkansas, to live with their grandmother and ends when Maya becomes a mother at the age of 16. In the course of Caged Bird, Maya transforms from a victim of racism with an inferiority complex into a self-possessed, dignified young woman capable of responding to prejudice. A very fine copy in black cloth with gilt and red stamping quite bright and red top stain still vibrant; in a fine dust jacket with only the barest edge wear and very mild creasing to the front flap (not price-clipped, as usually seen). .