A Summary of “Becoming” by Michelle Obama

MonsieurVIII
5 min readJul 2, 2023

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“Becoming” by Michelle Obama is an inspiring and deeply personal memoir that chronicles the life of the former First Lady of the United States. In this captivating book, Obama shares her journey from a humble upbringing on the South Side of Chicago to her years in the White House, offering insights into her experiences, values, and the significant impact she has had on the world.

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The memoir begins by introducing readers to Michelle’s childhood and family background. She reflects on her close-knit family and the influence of her parents, who instilled in her a strong work ethic and an unwavering belief in the power of education. Obama shares stories of her formative years, highlighting the challenges and opportunities she encountered while growing up in a predominantly African-American community.

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As Michelle progresses through her education, she excels academically and becomes determined to use her knowledge and skills to make a positive difference. She attends Princeton University, where she grapples with feelings of being an outsider and confronts the racial and social dynamics that shape her college experience. Through her involvement in various student organizations, she begins to find her voice and develops a passion for public service and advocacy.

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Following her graduation from Princeton, Michelle attends Harvard Law School, where she meets a fellow student named Barack Obama. She candidly shares the early stages of their relationship, describing the mutual respect, shared values, and love that blossomed between them. The memoir provides a behind-the-scenes look at their courtship, marriage, and the balancing act they faced as they pursued their individual careers while also building a life together.

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As Barack’s political career takes off, Michelle finds herself thrust into the world of politics and public service. She recounts the joys and challenges of being a supportive spouse and raising their two daughters under the intense scrutiny that comes with political life. She shares intimate stories of motherhood, revealing the dedication, sacrifice, and love that underpin her role as a parent.

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The memoir takes a significant turn when Barack Obama announces his candidacy for President of the United States. Michelle describes the grueling and emotional journey of the campaign trail, highlighting the personal sacrifices, scrutiny, and political pressures that come with seeking the highest office in the land. She offers candid insights into the triumphs and setbacks they faced as a family and the profound impact the campaign had on their lives.

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Once Barack is elected President, Michelle becomes the First Lady, a role she approaches with grace, passion, and a commitment to making a difference. She focuses on issues close to her heart, such as education, health, and military families, using her platform to advocate for positive change. Through her initiatives like Let’s Move! and Reach Higher, she aims to empower young people and promote healthier lifestyles and educational opportunities.

Beyond her policy work, Michelle Obama offers a deeply personal perspective on life within the White House. She shares anecdotes about hosting dignitaries, managing the demands of the role, and the constant balancing act between public and private life. She reflects on the impact of being the first African-American First Lady and the significance of representation for marginalized communities.

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Throughout the memoir, Obama emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and the power of resilience and perseverance. She explores the complexities of identity and the challenges she faced as a woman, an African-American, and a public figure. She candidly discusses the weight of public scrutiny, the emotional toll of criticism, and the strategies she developed to maintain her authenticity and navigate difficult moments.

In the final sections of the memoir, Michelle reflects on the Obama family’s transition out of the White House and the process of redefining their lives. She contemplates the legacy they leave behind and the importance of continuing to work towards a more inclusive and compassionate society.

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“Becoming” is a powerful and engaging memoir that offers readers a glimpse into the life of a remarkable woman who has had a profound impact on the world. Michelle Obama’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education, the importance of community and family, and the ability to overcome adversity with grace and resilience. Through her candid and evocative storytelling, she inspires readers to find their own voice, embrace their unique journey, and work towards making a positive difference in the world.

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