LOST SOMETHING?

No. reviewers 1.3M+
Rating 4.5 - 4.6
90%+ rated 4 or 5 stars 

Becoming is the memoir of Michelle Obama, former First Lady of the United States. The book chronicles her journey from growing up in the working-class neighbourhood of Chicago to becoming an influential global figure. She details her experiences in the White House, offering an intimate look at her life alongside President Barack Obama.

The memoir delves into themes of identity, family, race, and ambition, exploring both the triumphs and challenges Michelle faced as she navigated her public and private worlds. With honesty and grace, she reveals her vulnerabilities and triumphs, making the book a compelling reflection on the power of self-discovery and the pursuit of one’s purpose.

What reviewers loved

Inspiring Personal Journey: Readers praise the memoir for its honest and inspiring depiction of Michelle Obama’s journey, with many finding her story motivating and relatable, especially her reflections on overcoming obstacles to success.

Engaging Writing Style: Michelle Obama's clear, accessible, and eloquent writing style was appreciated by many. Her ability to weave storytelling with introspection and insightful commentary on personal growth resonated with readers.

Family and Identity: Reviewers particularly appreciated the emphasis on family dynamics and the exploration of identity, especially in terms of race and class. The candid portrayal of Michelle's relationship with her parents, as well as her husband, Barack Obama, added a human dimension to her public persona.

Insight into Life at the White House: Many found the behind-the-scenes glimpse of life in the White House fascinating, offering unique perspectives on the political and personal challenges the Obamas faced during their time in office.

Empowering Message for Women: The book is frequently cited for its empowering message, particularly for women of colour. It highlights the importance of perseverance, ambition, and confidence, and is seen as a beacon of strength for those facing societal challenges.

Advocacy for Education: Many readers appreciated Michelle Obama's passionate advocacy for education, particularly for young people. Her focus on the importance of education was seen as an inspiring call to action for future generations.

Honest Reflections on Public Scrutiny: Many reviewers valued Michelle’s honest reflections on dealing with public criticism, racism, and sexism, making it relatable for those who have faced similar challenges.
 
Idealised Image of the Obama Family: Some readers felt that Michelle Obama's portrayal of the Obama family was overly idealised, particularly in terms of their personal relationships and public lives. Some readers wished for a more nuanced exploration that might have humanised the family further, instead of presenting them almost as a perfect unit.

Somewhat Self-Serving: Several readers felt that at times, the memoir leaned too heavily on Michelle Obama’s accomplishments, with some considering it self-congratulatory. This critique was mostly voiced by those looking for a more balanced reflection.

Lack of Political Depth: While many readers enjoyed the personal elements of the memoir, some wanted a deeper dive into Michelle Obama’s political views and more insights into her role during Barack Obama’s presidency.