All God's Children Need Traveling Shoes

Written by Maya Angelou

Part of the Maya Angelou's Autobiography series

An African American in Ghana grapples with identity and belonging.

4.3 Goodreads · 8,330 ratings

208 pages· ~880L

$15.95Save 6%

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Bookroo's summary

In 1962, Maya Angelou moves to Ghana, joining a group of 'Revolutionist Returnees' seeking a pan-African future. As she navigates life on the mother continent, she confronts the complexities of identity, where her American roots clash with newfound cultural connections. This journey reveals both the promise and the challenges of belonging, raising questions about race, identity, and home. Angelou's narrative is a poignant exploration of self-discovery and cultural awakening, offering insights into the African American experience abroad. Will she find her place in a world where color fades but cultural ties persist?

From the publisher

In 1962 the poet, musician, and performer Maya Angelou claimed another piece of her identity by moving to Ghana, joining a community of “Revolutionist Returnees” inspired by the promise of pan-Africanism. All God’s Children Need Walking Shoes is her lyrical and acutely perceptive exploration of what it means to be an African American on the mother continent, where color no longer matters but where American-ness keeps asserting itself in ways both puzzling and heartbreaking. As it builds on the personal narrative of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and Gather Together in My Name, this book confirms Maya Angelou’s stature as one of the most gifted autobiographers of our time.

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