“Mrs. Flowers” from I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings By: Maya Angelou Picture Walk

Autobiography

Paul Dunbar I know why the caged bird sings, ah me, When his wing is bruised and his bosom sore, When he beats his bars and would be free; It is not a carol of joy or glee, But a prayer that he sends from his heart's deep core, But a plea, that upward to Heaven he flings – I know why the caged bird sings

Stamps, Arkansas

Mrs. Bertha Flowers Marguerite and Bailey Johnson

Marguerite was selectively mute. She went to Mrs. Flowers’ home.

Marguerite learns the power of language. Mrs. Flowers reads to Marguerite.

Marguerite grows up to become an award-winning poet and novelist.