All God's Children Need Traveling Shoes
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1986
209
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Ghana • 1960s
1986
Adult
18+ years
All God's Children Need Traveling Shoes by Maya Angelou is the fifth volume in her autobiographical series, covering 1962 to 1965, when she and her son, Guy, move to Ghana. The narrative follows Angelou as she nurses Guy back to health after a severe car accident, explores her identities as both African and African American, forms new relationships, and contributes to political life and civil rights movements in Ghana. The book includes depictions of serious injury, emotional distress, and individual encounters with racism.
Contemplative
Emotional
Inspirational
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
8,928 ratings
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All God's Children Need Traveling Shoes by Maya Angelou is praised for its evocative prose and profound cultural insights, recounting her experiences in Ghana with emotional honesty and rich historical context. However, some critics find its narrative structure disjointed. Overall, it is a compelling exploration of identity and belonging, resonating deeply with readers.
Readers who enjoy memoirs, African American history, and themes of identity and belonging will appreciate Maya Angelou's All God's Children Need Traveling Shoes. Fans of James Baldwin's Notes of a Native Son or Richard Wright's Black Boy would find this book compelling for its exploration of personal and cultural connections.
8,928 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
209
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Ghana • 1960s
1986
Adult
18+ years
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