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Becoming by Michelle Obama is an outstanding memoir of her life from a child up until the end of her time as First Lady after two terms. I went for the audiobook on this one, as Obama herself delivered the narration � it was an absolute pleasure listening to her describe her own life in her own words. At close to 20 hours of listening time, I can honestly say I was interested and engaged throughout. In fact, it wasn’t long enough.

I’ve read and heard some criticisms from others who believe this book is a bit slow, and I must say Michelle’s narration is unhurried, but to me it was relaxing, cool even � and sometimes soporific. One problem with audiobooks compared to reading is, when you fall asleep in bed with a book, its often found open on your chest in the morning at the page you nodded off � with an audiobook, it’s anyone’s guess when you fell asleep. But this was a great story and the former First Lady presented it so well.

Listening to her childhood was fascinating and provided context to why she ended up the way she is � strong, intelligent, determined with a great sense of social justice and ethics. This is further reinforced during her over-achieving university days and subsequent time as a commercial lawyer.

As a Barack Obama junkie, I really was looking forward to hearing about how they met, their relationship and how they interacted � even though this is very much Michelle’s version of events (by definition) � I wasn’t disappointed. Then of course, we learn about some of the politics. However, if you’re after a political tome, you’ll be left wanting more. Michelle Obama is not a lover of politics and this aspect of her life very much takes a back seat to her story of Michelle as a woman.

I loved listening to her stories of life in the White House and her attempts to raise two young girls as normally as possible. A massive challenge indeed.

I really admired Michelle Obama before I read this book, now I love her even more. A true pioneer, the very first African American First Lady who has gone through life struggling with the same issues we all do, and then finding herself totally surprised to be where she ended up. Brilliant story.

Loved it.

5 Stars