Maya's Song - by Renée Watson (Hardcover)

About the Book

"This unforgettable picture book introduces young readers to the life and work of Maya Angelou, whose words have uplifted and inspired generations of readers. The author of the celebrated autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Maya was the first Black person and first woman to recite a poem at a presidential inauguration, and her influence echoes through culture and history. She was also the first Black woman to appear on the United States quarter"--

Book Synopsis

From bestselling, award-winning creators Renée Watson and Bryan Collier comes a stunningly crafted picture book chronicling the life of poet and activist Maya Angelou.

This unforgettable picture book introduces young readers to the life and work of Maya Angelou, whose words have uplifted and inspired generations of readers. The author of the celebrated autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Maya was the first Black person and first woman to recite a poem at a presidential inauguration, and her influence echoes through culture and history. She was also the first Black woman to appear on the United States quarter.

Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King Author Award winner Renée Watson uses Angelou's beloved medium of poetry to lyrically chronicle her rich life in a deeply moving narrative. Vivid and striking collage art by Caldecott Honor recipient and Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award winner Bryan Collier completes this unforgettable portrait of one of the most important American artists in history.

Maya's momma was right.

Maya was a preacher, a teacher.

A Black girl whose voice

chased away darkness, ushered in light.

Review Quotes

"Collier's richly textured assemblage of collage and watercolor employs light, pattern, and subtle imagery that add depth to every image... This is a thoughtfully rendered biography of a dazzling figure." - Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"The narrative will rivet listeners with a sensitive account of Angelou's abuse, the ensuing years of trauma-induced mutism, and the recovery of her voice--more confident and powerful than before. Collier's watercolor and collage illustration ranges from literal scenes that situate time and setting to complex compositions that require and reward close, patient examination. Listeners who spend one-on-one time with the volume, following clues on color choice that Collier provides in an end note, will appreciate the subtleties and symbolism that amplify Maya's emotional state at key scenes." - Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"Watson doesn't shy away from addressing tough topics. Collier's accomplished illustrations have a strong narrative pull. This eloquent picture book is a portrait of a resilient woman with a deep capacity for using words to find hope in the world." - The Horn Book

"Told in a series of vignettes as verse, with Collier's remarkably textured backdrops shifting as Angelou adapts, changes and matures, "Maya's Song" is testament to how the worst of life can be the bedrock of beauty and flourishing: 'word-seeds' from 'a whole garden of words, words growing inside.'"

- New York Times Book Review

"Eloquent free verse poems recall pivotal events in the life of Maya Angelou. Layered illustrations reinforce the weight of words--and their absence. This exquisite tribute to one of America's most influential poets arrives just in time for young people to celebrate Angelou's appearance on the quarter." - Booklist (starred review)

"A loving tribute in free verse to a writer who found her home, and herself, in her words." - Kirkus Reviews (starred review)