📖 In this episode of the Learn English Podcast, we explore the life and legacy of Maya Angelou and the true story behind why her most famous book, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, has been banned in some places.

– Learn who Maya Angelou was and why she is important in U.S. history – Understand what a banned book is and why some books are removed – Listen to and break down the poem “Caged Bird” – Learn important vocabulary from poetry and real life – Improve your listening, comprehension, and cultural knowledge – Perfect for B1–B2 English learners

This episode uses real American history and literature to help you grow your vocabulary, practice listening, and understand deeper meaning in English.

🔗Previous MLK Episodes:

https://youtu.be/uWQ81iE1Z0c

https://youtu.be/WJPpPFrwqfY

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Podcast website: https://learnenglishpod.com/

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📚Affiliate link for italki: https://www.italki.com/en/i/ref/GBBdbb

📜 SOURCES

Caged Bird Poem: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/48989/caged-bird

Oprah Winfrey Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CphS2AKUB1M

Inauguration Poem: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59xGmHzxtZ4

📝 Vocabulary list:

1) Banned book – a book that has been removed from libraries or schools.

2) Struggles – difficult experiences or challenges.

3) Traumatic – very shocking or upsetting, causing lasting emotional pain.

4) Speak out – to say what you think openly, especially about something wrong or unfair.

5) Civil Rights Movement – the social movement in the U.S. fighting for equal rights for African Americans in the 1950s–60s.

6) Memoir – a book that someone writes about their own life and experiences.

7) Honorary degree – a special academic award given to someone for their achievements.

8) Analogy – A comparison between two things to help explain something.

9) Leap – to jump with energy or joy.

10) Seldom – almost never; rarely.

11) Rage – very strong anger.

12) Long for – to strongly want or desire something, especially something hard to get