Becoming by Michelle Obama
Random House, Inc.
Publication Date: November 13, 2018
ISBN: 978-0525633679
Michelle Obama’s memoir begins with her early childhood memories growing up on Chicago’s south side through law school, parenting, her time in the White House, culminating with the end of Barack’s presidency. From the indignity of forgetting a color in kindergarten to a social faux pas with the Queen of England, Michelle is able to skillfully relay her life experiences ranging from the ordinary to the extraordinary. She also does not shy away from her struggles throughout her life to fit in, balance motherhood and career, and find her way in the White House. Throughout Becoming, Obama relays many engaging, relatable and enlightening memories of her life.
Obama’s narration of her own memoir adds insight and a sense of intimacy to her many stories; Michelle’s honest and heartfelt candor allows listeners to vicariously experience the many vicissitudes of her political and personal life. She is able to skillfully and authentically tell her own story adding emotion as though the memory were from yesterday, not decades ago.
Teens who are fans of the Obamas won’t be able to wait to get their hands on this one. Readers interested in biographies, stories of overcoming the odds, or the lives of celebrities and politicians will find plenty to enjoy in Becoming. Fans of Madam Secretary will find a lot of similarities in mixing the everyday and family obligations with high level politics.
–Cyndi Hamann