Maya’s Song opens in a new tab
Renée Watson, author,
Bryan Collier, illustrator
Harper Collins, 2022
From award-winning creators Renée Watson and Bryan Collier comes a new picture book chronicling the life of poet/activist/storyteller Maya Angelou.
This exceptional picture book introduces our youngest readers to her life and work. Angelou’s words have uplifted and inspired generations of readers.
We learn of her celebrated autobiography “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”, her life in Ghana, the fact that she is the first Black person and first woman to recite a poem at a presidential inauguration [President Clinton]. 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 weave words of her rich life into a deeply moving narrative. From a young child Renée has recited Angelou’s poetry and uses this book to create a tribute to a remarkable person.
Vivid and outstanding collage art combined with watercolors by Caldecott Honor recipient and Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award winner, Bryan Collier completes this portrait of one of the most important American artists in history. Collier has won awards for Martin’s Big Words, Rosa, and Dave the Potter among his other published works.
There is a timeline at the back of the book with highlights of Maya Angelou’s life.
Maya’s momma was right.
Maya was a preacher, a teacher.
A Black girl whose voice
chased away darkness, ushered in light.
