Becoming

Synopsis

What’s important is our story, our whole story, including those moments when we feel a little vulnerable . . .

Michelle Robinson started life sharing a bedroom with her older brother Craig, in their family’s upstairs apartment in her great-aunt’s house. Her parents, Fraser and Marian, poured their love and energy into their children. She would go on to become Michelle Obama, the inspirational First Lady of the United States of America.

Now adapted for younger readers, with new photographs and a new introduction from Michelle Obama herself, this memoir tells a very personal, and completely inspiring, story of how, through hard work and determination, the girl from the South Side of Chicago built an extraordinary life.

A tale of ups and downs, triumphs and failures, this is an incredibly honest account. It’ll take you from the early years – first kiss, first school, first love – to the wonders of the White House, and the moment Mrs Obama shook hands with the Queen of England.

A book to read, share, and talk about with the adults in your life, this is a call to action and compassion, and hope for change in uncertain times, and in a scary world.

You’ll be inspired to help others, and understand that no one is perfect. Just like Michelle Obama, you too are finding out exactly who you want to be (and, actually, so are the adults in your life).

Above all, it is a book to make you think: who are you, and what do you want to become?

Summary

Chapter 1: Embrace the Unknown

* Summary: This chapter emphasizes the importance of stepping outside of our comfort zones to embrace new challenges and opportunities. It encourages us to view the unknown as a pathway for growth and learning.
* Example: A woman who decides to quit her stable job to start her own business, despite her fears and uncertainties.

Chapter 2: Dare to Dream

* Summary: This chapter encourages us to dream boldly and without limits. It challenges the notion that we should be practical and only pursue achievable goals. Instead, it advocates for embracing our wildest aspirations.
* Example: A young musician who aspires to perform on Broadway, even though they have no formal training or connections.

Chapter 3: Break the Mold

* Summary: This chapter encourages us to challenge societal norms and expectations. It promotes individuality and authenticity, urging us to live our lives according to our own values and beliefs.
* Example: A person who identifies as non-binary and refuses to conform to traditional gender roles.

Chapter 4: Embrace Imperfection

* Summary: This chapter acknowledges that perfection is an illusion and that it can hold us back from pursuing our goals. It encourages us to embrace our flaws and to see them as opportunities for improvement.
* Example: A writer who struggles with perfectionism but eventually learns to accept and appreciate their imperfections, resulting in more authentic and meaningful work.

Chapter 5: Find Your Tribe

* Summary: This chapter highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with supportive and positive people who believe in us and encourage our growth. It emphasizes the power of community and collaboration.
* Example: A group of entrepreneurs who come together to share ideas, offer support, and help each other overcome challenges.

Chapter 6: Step into Leadership

* Summary: This chapter encourages us to step into leadership roles, even if we do not feel fully qualified. It promotes the idea that leadership is not about having all the answers but about inspiring and empowering others.
* Example: A shy and reserved woman who volunteers to lead a project at work and discovers her hidden leadership potential.

Chapter 7: Be a Force for Good

* Summary: This chapter emphasizes the importance of making a positive impact on the world. It encourages us to use our talents and abilities to help others and to strive for a more equitable and sustainable society.
* Example: A doctor who volunteers at a free clinic on weekends to provide medical care to marginalized communities.

Chapter 8: Rewrite Your Story

* Summary: This chapter encourages us to take control of our own narratives and to rewrite our stories. It challenges us to dispel limiting beliefs and to create a future that aligns with our values and aspirations.
* Example: A person who overcame a traumatic childhood to become a successful advocate for mental health awareness.

Chapter 9: Stay the Course

* Summary: This chapter reinforces the importance of perseverance and resilience. It acknowledges that the path to becoming is often filled with challenges and setbacks, but encourages us to stay the course and never give up on our dreams.
* Example: An athlete who faces multiple injuries but continues to train and compete, ultimately achieving their goal of representing their country in the Olympics.