‘Becoming’ by Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama’s long-awaited memoir has remained on bestseller lists since it debuted in November. It’s for a good reason. Michelle’s candid perspective offers a narrative spanning her childhood in Chicago to her retreat with Barack from White House. It also feels honest, especially when she details the process of making cheese toast in the microwave, post-presidential life. Overall, her story is about a supportive partner, but one who is equal in drive, dedication, and purpose. While I didn’t listen to an audio version of the book, it reads like she's in the room, sharing stories over coffee—or in the case of Michelle, wine. I would have appreciated more insight into how Michelle stays grounded, but her advice on how to dispel the "haters" proves useful. This book reminds readers that to become anything takes not only patience but belief.