[Book] Becoming by Michelle Obama - #5 in Memoir 📚
Becoming by Michelle Obama [Book Review]
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Becoming by Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama’s Becoming is an intimate, grounded, and deeply personal memoir. She takes us through her life—from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to the ivy-covered halls of Princeton, from high-powered law firms to community organizing, and finally to the White House. But while her story intersects with major political events, this book isn’t about politics. It’s about family, identity, values, and using your voice to make a difference.
What stood out to me most was her warmth and sincerity. Her voice, both in writing and narration, is full of empathy, strength, and an unwavering belief in the good in people. She comes across as principled and gracious—someone deeply committed to doing right by others, especially children, military families, and underserved communities.
There are plenty of behind-the-scenes glimpses of life in the White House: how stepping outside for fresh air becomes a logistical feat, or how even a trip to a daughter’s soccer game requires a full motorcade. Michelle shares the challenges of raising grounded children in a world where nothing is normal—not even a playdate.
She also reflects on her initiatives as First Lady—planting the White House garden, championing healthy eating for kids, supporting military families, and advocating for girls' education globally. While she makes it clear that she doesn’t love politics, she absolutely loves people—and used her platform to uplift and empower wherever she could.
Her reflections on being the first Black First Lady are thoughtful and powerful. It wasn’t just about breaking barriers—it was about what that symbol meant to so many. But she also acknowledges the painful truth that progress is never simple. The election of the Obamas didn’t end racism; in many ways, it revealed how far we still have to go.
Listening to her narrate this story felt like being in the room with someone genuine and grounded. The book is a touch longer than it needed to be, yes—but by the end, I didn’t mind. Michelle Obama is someone I could listen to for hours. Her story is a reminder of what dignity, compassion, and quiet strength look like—not just in public office, but in everyday life.
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Don’t miss out on this captivating journey!
This memoir isn’t just a life story—it’s a layered journey of discovery, filled with hard truths and unexpected turns that draw you in and keep you thinking long after the final page.