Maya Angelou’s poetry pairs with Jean-Michel Basquiat’s paintings to create this gorgeous celebration

The glorious picture book Life Doesn’t Frighten Me features the work of two legendary artists—poet Maya Angelou and artist Jean Michel Basquiat—“a powerful exploration of emotion and its expression through the careful blend of words and art” (School Library Journal).

Dr. Maya Angelou’s unforgettable poem is matched with the daring art of Jean-Michel Basquiat in this powerful ode to courage.

Shadows on the wall
Noises down the hall
Life doesn’t frighten me at all

Angelou’s brave, defiant poem celebrates the courage within each of us, young and old. From the scary thought of panthers in the park to the unsettling scene of a new classroom, fearsome images are summoned and dispelled by the power of faith in ourselves.

Angelou’s strong words are matched by the bold vision of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, whose style reveals the powerful emotions and fanciful imaginings of childhood. Together, Angelou’s words and Basquiat’s paintings create a place where every child, indeed every person, may experience their own fearlessness.

This brilliant introduction to poetry and contemporary art features brief biographies of Angelou and Basquiat and an afterword from the editor, Sara Jane Boyers. A selected bibliography of Angelou’s books and a selected museum listing of Basquiat’s works open the door to further inspiration through the fine arts.