Becoming

I'm not usually one for books by public figures, especially those with some tie to contemporary politics. I read for escapism, for distance from push notifications about neverending election cycles. So why read this? I don't know. I don't know why I do what I do. But I just happened to wrap it up on Michelle Obama's birthday, and was surprised by how much I liked it.

More than anything, Becoming is about the impossible balancing act that comes with being someone like Michelle Obama. She's been branded everything and its opposite: too much and not enough, loved and hated, worshipped and demonized. She recalls how soundbites and outfits morphed into scathing headlines. One journalist called her the “princess of South Chicago,” while others argued she didn't know how to conduct herself around Queen Elizabeth. She was alleged to hate both America and Oscar de la Renta. She was a liability.

Many have explored this idea of balancing the personal and professional, have felt trapped in a tug-of-war between being successful and being well-liked. Every factor involved in that is magnified and complicated by being the first Black FLOTUS to the first Black POTUS.

Being shielded by security, yet under worldwide scrutiny. Living in a fortress equipped with a bowling alley and personal chefs, yet not having the freedom to open a window. Trying to divide time between your children and the constituents who elected their father (as well as those who didn't). It was so difficult, yet she is so grateful. It was exhausting, but such an honor.

Mrs. Obama also discusses imposter syndrome: asking herself whether she's good enough, whether she's done enough, whether she's done good. She talks about building confidence in herself, in her kids, in kids in general. Her perspective was too individualistic for me at some points, but you don't get to the White House with my cynicism. Becoming is a warm memoir chronicling the unique experiences of a woman who broke new ground, then did so more literally by planting a beautiful garden.