Summary

Barack was inaugurated as the 44th president of the United States and Obama assumed the role of First Lady. As she notes, the role of First Lady has “no handbook” and is “not technically a job” (283), but involves a great deal of responsibility. Prior to the inauguration, Obama began planning the initiatives she would take on as First Lady, coordinating details of their new household in the White House, and selecting schools for Sasha and Malia to attend.

At times, Obama found the visibility of her role draining. Inauguration day was particularly trying, and after attending more than 10 inaugural balls Obama abruptly departed to the First Family’s apartments. Over time, Obama’s fashion choices and body made headlines, a reality she found ridiculous.

Obama endeavored to retain a sense of normalcy for the family. She encouraged their daughters to “rummage...