Becoming, 2018, Michelle Obama *****

 

Michelle Obama’s Becoming is not just a memoir, it’s a journey of resilience, hope, and unwavering grace. From the very first page, Michelle invites us into the heart of her world, painting vivid portraits of her childhood in the South Side of Chicago. She writes with raw honesty about her father, who, despite battling multiple sclerosis, never missed a day of work. His quiet strength, paired with the warmth of a close-knit family and the fierce protection of her brother Craig, gave Michelle the foundation to dream bigger than her circumstances.

What strikes you immediately is her determination. A young girl with ambition that soared far beyond her neighborhood, Michelle thrived in school, eventually making her way to Princeton University. There, she found inspiration in mentors, peers, and a sense of belonging that fueled her path forward. Her brilliance carried her to a prestigious law firm in Chicago, where fate, in the form of a summer intern named Barack Obama, walked through the door.

Reading Michelle’s account of meeting Barack is as refreshing as it is moving. Their early days together, their trip to

Kenya to meet Barack’s grandmother, and their shared dreams reveal a love story built not only on passion but on purpose. Michelle writes candidly about Barack’s steadfast belief in change and his early resolve to step into public service. His vision for a better America didn’t just shape his future, it also profoundly shaped hers.

But Michelle doesn’t shy away from vulnerability. She shares their struggles to become parents and the delicate balance of raising daughters while living under the relentless spotlight of the White House. Her reflections on her mother are some of the most touching moments in the book, you can feel the deep admiration and gratitude she carries for the woman who grounded her.

Becoming is more than the story of a First Lady; it’s the story of a woman who never stopped striving to grow, to question, and to lead with authenticity. Michelle Obama’s voice is powerful yet intimate, like sitting down with a trusted friend who wants you to believe in the strength of your own becoming.

This memoir is a testament to hard work, love, and the courage to carve out one’s own path while lifting others along the way. It left me inspired, awed, and deeply moved. Becoming is not just a book you read; it’s a book that stays with you. I highly recommend it to anyone who seeks not just a glimpse into the life of an extraordinary woman, but also a reminder of the extraordinary potential within themselves.