For our next book club book we will be reading “Becoming” by Michelle Obama. This memoir of the former First Lady discusses not only her personal journey and upbringing as an African American girl on the south side of Chicago but also her time in the White House and beyond. It is a fascinating glimpse into the life of this influential figure in America.
Michelle Obama (nee Robinson) grew up in a close-knit family and always aspired to succeed. She attended Princeton University where she majored in sociology and African-American studies. She later earned J.D. at Harvard Law and worked there at the Harvard Legal Aid Bureau. Later, while at the law firm of Sidley Austin, she met Barack Obama, who she eventually married and they started a family. She backed her husband’s bid for the White House and then as First Lady she championed numerous causes to public service throughout their tenure there. Her initiatives such as Let’s Move (a task force on childhood obesity) and Reach Higher (to inspire every student in the U.S. to complete education past high school), have made significant and lasting impacts in American society.
GEMs recommends this book because it is a wonderful window into the life of an inspiring role model. With the themes of public service and the undercurrent of strong values, Michelle Obama embodies female empowerment and achievement through her life’s work and career. It is an uplifting read and an interesting insight into the workings of the most powerful office in the Western World.
