Final Rating:
Date of Completion: 04/08/2023
Published by: Penguin
ISBN: 9780241998090
Cover:
The clean, white design nicely reflects the content and message of this book. I also love Michelle’s smiling photo and how its colours match the text colours.
Writing:
The conversational writing style incorporates creative metaphors and captivating stories to maximize the impact of the content. Repetition is also used to drive home key concepts, and a positive, uplifting atmosphere keeps the book engaging throughout.
In clinging only to what you know, you are making your world small.
Content:
Through honest reflections, Michelle Obama takes us further into her personal journey and offers valuable insights on complex themes such as uncertainty, injustice, friendships, and being different. However, the contents felt slightly disjointed, and it took me some time to settle into this book.
Narration & Audio:
Michelle effortlessly uses vocal variety to enhance the tone and atmosphere throughout this book, making the content even more engaging.
Here are a few more quotes I liked:
- “sometimes the big stuff becomes easier to handle when you deliberately put something small alongside it.”
- “Our hurts become our fears. Our fears become our limits.”
- “There’s something unnerving about moving through a place and not seeing people who look like you anywhere.”
- “No one can make you feel bad if you feel good about yourself”
- “When you know your own light, you are then better prepared to share it with another person”
In summary, Michelle Obama draws on her personal experiences and toolkit to present readers with ways to handle various situations and challenges. This impactful content is kept engaging through her vibrant writing and narration. For more advice on building and improving friendships, which Michelle touches on, check out To My Sisters by Courtney Daniella Boateng and Renee Kapuku.
Do you agree or disagree with anything mentioned above? Let us know in the comments below. For those who have read this and want to discuss it, here are a few questions (contains spoilers!!):
Q: What is one piece of advice you took away from this book?
My answer: Recharge and find comfort in the small things and victories during big battles. Moving forward, I will no longer feel guilty for having fun and pursuing hobbies when I have a lot going on, as this can give me the strength I need to face significant tasks.
Q: What is one new thing you learnt about Michelle Obama?
My answer: She knits! I find that so cute! I tried to pick up knitting a few years ago but never got into it.
Q: Is there a way you can use your light to feed another?
My answer: I am trying to be more intentional with my friendships and be an even better friend to those in my life. I am also trying to be more vulnerable and hope to build a “kitchen table” of trusted friends.
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