Writer Maya Angelou was an American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. She is best known for her autobiographical works, such as I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, which made her the first African-American woman to have a nonfiction bestseller. Angelou was also a prolific poet, with collections such as Just Give Me a Cool Drink of Water 'fore I Diiie and Phenomenal Woman. Her work has been honored with numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.