Today's Read Contributor Michelle Obama’s memoir Becoming, released in November 2018, quickly became a global phenomenon, resonating with millions of readers from all walks of life. With over 15 million copies sold worldwide, the book has cemented its place as one of the most successful memoirs of all time. What makes Becoming stand out from the flood of autobiographies that populate bestseller lists is not only the detailed recounting of Obama’s life, but the profound way it highlights her personal journey of growth, resilience, and empowerment. The memoir takes readers through pivotal moments in her life, from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her eight years as First Lady of the United States, and beyond. What stands out the most is the way Obama has shared her struggles, triumphs, and reflections with such grace and honesty.
A Journey from the South Side to the White House
At the heart of Becoming is Michelle Obama’s unwavering commitment to her values and her determination to overcome the societal challenges she faced. In the first section of the book, “Becoming Me,” Obama offers a candid and intimate look at her early life. Growing up in a working-class family in Chicago, Michelle Robinson (her maiden name) faced the realities of racial and class-based discrimination. In a city where the divide between rich and poor was ever-present, and where systemic racism affected every aspect of daily life, Michelle had to learn early on how to navigate the world in a way that would allow her to thrive.
One of the most poignant moments in Becoming Me is when Obama recalls her experiences as a young girl, struggling to fit in at Princeton University. As one of the few African American students at the prestigious institution, she experienced feelings of isolation and imposter syndrome. Her narrative highlights not only her personal insecurities but also the larger challenges faced by women of color in higher education, where they often have to work twice as hard to prove themselves. This part of her story has resonated deeply with many readers who have struggled with similar feelings of inadequacy in spaces where they feel marginalized. It’s a powerful reminder of how overcoming personal doubts can lead to immense growth and eventual success.
The memoir goes beyond the usual tropes of personal success to provide a deep, authentic reflection on overcoming societal obstacles. Obama’s academic achievements and professional rise, including her work at the University of Chicago and later at a prestigious law firm, were hard-earned. She discusses how, despite her considerable accomplishments, she still had to face the realities of racism and sexism that were often subtle but pervasive.
Love and Public Life: Becoming Us
In the second section of Becoming, “Becoming Us,” Obama delves into her relationship with her husband, Barack Obama. This part of the memoir offers a rare and deeply personal look at their partnership, from their first meeting at a Chicago law firm to the whirlwind of political campaigns that would ultimately propel Barack to the White House. The story of their relationship is one of balance, sacrifice, and growth. Michelle’s candid reflections on their early years together demonstrate how the couple had to negotiate the personal and public aspects of their lives, often in ways that many working couples can relate to.
One of the most memorable passages in Becoming Us is when Michelle recalls the early days of Barack’s political career. As he ascended in the political world, Michelle’s role as a supportive partner and mother to their daughters, Malia and Sasha, came into sharp focus. Michelle discusses the emotional toll of balancing her professional ambitions with the demands of family life, particularly as her husband’s political career began to take off. The stress of raising two young daughters while maintaining her own professional identity in the spotlight is something many women can identify with, especially as the pressures of being in the public eye began to mount.
Yet, even as she faced these challenges, Michelle’s resilience became more apparent. She used her platform to speak on issues that were personal to her, such as the importance of family, education, and health. Her narrative underscores the need for women to take ownership of their stories and their power, even in a world that often asks them to be quiet or secondary.
In the White House: Becoming More
The final section of the memoir, “Becoming More,” focuses on Michelle’s years in the White House as First Lady of the United States. In this section, Obama offers an insightful and candid look at her experiences within the highly publicized and often scrutinized role. She reflects on the challenges of navigating political opposition and the relentless criticism she faced, particularly in the racially charged political climate of the Obama presidency.
One of the key themes in this section is Michelle’s dedication to promoting initiatives that would improve the lives of American families. As First Lady, she championed the “Let’s Move!” campaign to combat childhood obesity, focusing on healthy eating and physical activity in schools. She also pushed for increased access to education for young girls around the world through the “Let Girls Learn” initiative, which brought attention to the challenges faced by girls in underprivileged communities. Michelle was also a strong advocate for military families, understanding firsthand the sacrifices they make, given her husband’s long absences during his time in office.
Despite facing intense scrutiny, Michelle’s ability to remain authentic and true to herself was one of the most compelling aspects of her time in the White House. She writes with poignancy about the weight of being the first African American First Lady and the way in which her every move was under constant examination. Yet, through it all, she found strength in advocating for causes close to her heart and using her platform to inspire change.
Michelle Obama’s tenure as First Lady was not without controversy. As a public figure, she became a lightning rod for criticism, particularly from conservative commentators who often targeted her for her outspokenness on issues of race and inequality. Yet, her ability to respond with dignity and intelligence made her a beloved figure to many, both in the U.S. and abroad.
The Legacy of Becoming
Since its release, Becoming has not only been a commercial success but also a source of inspiration for countless readers. The memoir has become a touchstone for conversations about race, gender, and the intersection of both in American society. Through her story, Michelle Obama has empowered many, especially women, to reflect on their own journeys of personal growth, resilience, and empowerment.
What stands out most about Michelle Obama’s memoir is its timeless relevance. While the events of her life are undeniably tied to specific moments in American history, the larger themes of perseverance, self-doubt, and empowerment are universal. Becoming is not just about Michelle Obama’s story—it is a reflection of the collective experiences of many who have had to fight for recognition, equality, and opportunity. In sharing her experiences, Obama has given voice to those who often feel overlooked or marginalized, especially women of color, while also offering hope and a blueprint for how to thrive in the face of adversity.
As the memoir continues to inspire readers, Michelle Obama’s impact as a writer, speaker, and advocate remains significant. The powerful lessons within Becoming are likely to continue influencing generations to come, reminding us all that growth is a continuous journey, and that resilience, empowerment, and self-discovery are key to overcoming life’s obstacles.
