One of so many talents could only be expected to talk superbly, too. Here in over two dozen interviews is the voice of Maya Angelou (1928-2014) telling with strength, warmth, honesty, and dignified pride of her impact upon a difficult world and ultimately of her triumph.

She has written poetry and a stream of dynamic autobiographies that include I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings; Gather Together in My Name; Singin' and Swingin' and Gettin' Merry Like Christmas; and Oh Pray My Wings Are Gonna Fit Me Well.

In Conversations with Maya Angelou she spreads out the facts of her remarkable history for our examination and in sharing these conveys a salubrious philosophy and a zest for life.

Jeffrey M. Elliot was a professor of political science at North Carolina Central University. His books include The State and Local Government Political Dictionary, Urban Society, and many others. He conducted over 350 interviews, including interviews with Jimmy Carter, Fidel Castro, and Contra leader Adolfo Calero.