(Biography.com) Although Maya is most commonly known for her work as a poet, she was also an author, playwright, stage and screen producer, director, and singer. ... Many of her writings deal with the role of African Culture in American life. ... The book does a very good job at explaining how hard it was for Maya in times when Caucasian people thought they were better than the African Americans. ... If it wasn't for the imagery, people would still get the point, but they wouldn't be able to tell how hard it was for Maya to live, and fight for African American rights. ...

• Word Count: 588
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: High School

She is also one of the most influential African-Americans in American history. ... During the time that Maya was growing up, America was just recovering from the Great Depression and it was also a time when African Americans were oppressed. ... In 1952 Maya met a Greek -American sailor named Tosh Angelos. ... Maya is not only known for her works in poetry, she also took a hand at being a playwright. ... In my opinion, Maya is a true American Genius, not only for her works in poetry, but for beating the odds, and becoming the most influential African American Woman in my opinion. ...

• Word Count: 1253
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School