Maya's first book, I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings, placed her among a group of African American firsts. Her book hit the bestseller list. It is one of the most revealing autobiographies ever written. This amazing woman tells of her humble beginnings, southern roots, her various life styles and always her faith in God.

An actress, dancer, singer, poet, speaker, and writer, Maya has become a phenomenon in literary circles. Maya was the first poet since Robert Frost to read at a presidential inauguration. She read "On the Pulse of Morning" for President Clinton. Some of the most beautiful and memorable poetry has come from her hand. She has become a renaissance woman whose words and thoughtfulness command attention.