BECOMING

by Michelle Obama
 
In reading a first lady’s memoir you might expect descriptions, perhaps some even heartfelt, about what it was really like spending four, or maybe eight, years in the White House.  Michelle Obama delivers that, hands down. But, in addition she offers her readers much, much more. 
 
The first part of the book describes her childhood on the South Side of Chicago.  She credits her parents, her teachers and her extended family for instilling in her the desire to learn and to strive to reach her potential.  Through college and law school their support remains constant.  Even so, Obama always doubts whether she is “good enough.”   And by sharing this, she makes herself vulnerable and the reader responds.
 
Similarly, when she meets Barack Obama and they marry and have children and he decides to run for president, she worries about whether she can continue to put in crazy hours at the law firm; who will watch her children; and, how much will they see their father.  By sharing her feelings of doubt and anxiety and confusion, Obama connects with every mother everywhere who has had to deal with similar worries.
 
Perhaps most poignant for me, was Obama sharing her mother’s reaction every time someone said to her, “You must be very proud of Michelle.”  Without fail, her mother would say, “Oh, there’s plenty more like her back on the South Side of Chicago.”  Indeed, how many children could achieve what the Michelle Obamas of the world achieve, if only they had people who believed in them and supported them?
 
Obama fills the pages of her memoir with stories about her time in the White House – both the fabulous times and the excruciating episodes of racism and sexism.  But always she comes across as honest and human.  She writes beautifully and shares some of her deepest feelings and fears.  As a reader, I couldn’t help but love her.  I guarantee that you will too. (Liz)

A SECOND HELPING

I don’t know how to talk about this book without gushing.  It is the most inspirational, well-written, fascinating look inside a person’s brain that I have ever encountered.  I didn’t think I could love Michelle Obama any more, but wow.  This will be one I re-read when I need a bit of magic to inspire me. (Lily)