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Becoming

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"Becoming" by Michelle Obama is a heartfelt autobiography that delves into the life of the former First Lady of the United States. The book narrates Michelle's journey from her humble beginnings in Chicago to meeting and marrying Barack Obama, and eventually becoming the First Lady. Through her own voice, Michelle shares personal anecdotes, insights into her family life, her struggles and triumphs, and her unwavering commitment to her values and heritage. The book also touches on important themes such as education, racism, American politics, and the impact of the Obamas on the world.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is inviting and engaging, allowing readers to connect deeply with Michelle's experiences.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative chronicles Michelle Obama's progression from her childhood to her experiences as a public figure, emphasizing themes of resilience and identity.

Setting:

The memoir is set against the backdrop of Chicago and Washington D.C., emphasizing significant locations in her personal and political life.

Pacing:

Pacing varies, with a faster flow in her early life contrasted by more contemplative sections during her time in the White House.
I spent much of my childhood listening to the sound of striving. It came in the form of bad music, or at least amateur music, coming up through the floorboards of my bedroom—the plink plink plink of s...

Notes:

Becoming is divided into three sections: Becoming Me, Becoming Us, and Becoming More.
The book chronicles Michelle Obama's journey from her childhood in South Side Chicago to her time as First Lady.
Michelle's parents prioritized education and worked hard to ensure she and her brother had opportunities.
She attended Princeton and Harvard Law School, where she earned her law degree.
Michelle met Barack Obama when she was assigned to mentor him during his summer internship at a law firm.
Barack Obama was determined to pursue politics, which initially caused tension in their relationship, as Michelle was less interested in that world.
While in the White House, Michelle initiated programs like Let’s Move and Let Girls Learn, focusing on health and education.
She recalls funny and intimate moments with Barack, showcasing their strong relationship.
The book also addresses the stress of raising children under constant media scrutiny.
Michelle expresses her devotion to her family and discusses how she balanced motherhood with her public role.
She shares experiences of dealing with racism and the pressures of being the first black First Lady.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include discussions of racism, sexism, infertility, and miscarriage.

From The Publisher:

#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

WATCH THE EMMY-NOMINATED NETFLIX ORIGINAL DOCUMENTARY

OPRAH'S BOOK CLUB PICK

NAACP IMAGE AWARD WINNER

ONE OF ESSENCE'S 50 MOST IMPACTFUL BLACK BOOKS OF THE PAST 50 YEARS

In a life filled with meaning and accomplishment, Michelle Obama has emerged as one of the most iconic and compelling women of our era. As First Lady of the United States of America-the first African American to serve in that role-she helped create the most welcoming and inclusive White House in history, while also establishing herself as a powerful advocate for women and girls in the U.S. and around the world, dramatically changing the ways that families pursue healthier and more active lives, and standing with her husband as he led America through some of its most harrowing moments. Along the way, she showed us a few dance moves, crushed Carpool Karaoke, and raised two down-to-earth daughters under an unforgiving media glare.

In her memoir, a work of deep reflection and mesmerizing storytelling, Michelle Obama invites readers into her world, chronicling the experiences that have shaped her-from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her years as an executive balancing the demands of motherhood and work, to her time spent at the world's most famous address. With unerring honesty and lively wit, she describes her triumphs and her disappointments, both public and private, telling her full story as she has lived it-in her own words and on her own terms. Warm, wise, and revelatory, Becoming is the deeply personal reckoning of a woman of soul and substance who has steadily defied expectations-and whose story inspires us to do the same.

Ratings (78)

Incredible (20)
Loved It (32)
Liked It (16)
It Was OK (6)
Did Not Like (2)
Hated It (2)

Reader Stats (141):

Read It (78)
Currently Reading (2)
Want To Read (26)
Did Not Finish (5)
Not Interested (30)

7 comment(s)

Incredible
1 month

This book was simply lovely. I listened to the audiobook, which was narrated by Michelle. I felt like I was hearing a story from a good friend. She shared her story with amazing candor and grace. Although I've been a fan of the Obamas for years, I didn't know a lot about Michelle's background. It was fascinating to hear the spouse's perspective of the campaigns and the presidency. I felt for her worries as a parent of two girls growing up in the public eye. She's an extraordinary person and I'm glad she's getting her moment in the spotlight.

 
Liked It
2 months

I am very much enjoying reading this book and learning how Michelle and the President evolved into the people they are.

 
Incredible
4 months

I have such a new found respect for Michelle Obama after reading this. Truly the definition of living the "American Dream" and an inspiration for generations to come!

 
Loved It
4 months

****4.0****

Review soon

 
It Was OK
9 months

This memoir is inspiring. Michelle Obama's life is so powerful, and such an important story to be told.

My favorite part was her and Barack's love story.

This book was also way too long and repetitive, and I was bored in many parts of it.

 
Incredible
1 year

Michelle has given me new insights on that ache that lies in a lot of our stomachs which calls us to question our own worth. Do I belong? How did I get here? They will find out i do not belong. Imposter syndrome has been prevalent in my life and Michelle has helped me see it when it rears it's ugly head and put it in its rightful place.

 
Incredible
2 years

Recently, I finished reading Michelle Obama’s memoir, Becoming, and it taught me a lot about hard work and the journey to success. This book was eye-opening and inspiring, giving me a glimpse into how much work it takes to become successful and all the struggles along the way. It amazed me how she went from living in a little Chicago apartment to studying at Princeton and Harvard, and ultimately becoming the First Lady.

 

About the Author:

Michelle Robinson Obama served as First Lady of the United States from 2009 to 2017. A graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Law School, Mrs. Obama started her career as an attorney at the Chicago law firm Sidley & Austin,…

 
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