It’s pretty impossible to say anything bad about Michelle Obama’s memoir, Becoming and since there is so much buzz about this book I’m going to keep this short and sweet.

GET.THIS.BOOK.

The end. Just kidding… kind of! In all seriousness, this was such a great read for so many reasons. I loved learning more about Michelle Obama as an individual because so much of what we know of her, we know through the media (which, LOL is all I will say to that) or as former First Lady. Reading about her childhood on the South Side of Chicago was so fun! Especially when she would mention places or neighborhoods that are familiar to me.

I loved how the book flowed from one portion of her life to another. From her childhood, to how she met Barack, to their early and young relationship, to the start of his political career and the road that led them to the White House and finally, to life after being POTUS and FLOTUS.

I truly can’t explain how inspirational Michelle and Barack Obama are. The good that they have done for our country both together and as individuals is astounding. They are genuinely good people. And no, I don’t care that I’ve never (obviously) met them but I have read and seen enough to know they are amazing people. Not only are they amazing on their own, but together they are a true force to be reckoned with. I found so much inspiration and takeaways from reading about their relationship; I assumed they have a fairytale marriage and nothing ever goes wrong. It was refreshing to read that they are open about their differences, that they go to a couples therapist, and have fights like any normal couple. Because well, they ARE normal.

This is one thing I loved taking away from Becoming : while the Obamas are some of the greatest people to ever lead our country, they are just like you and I in so many ways. Their life and their dreams are NOT unattainable and they are the perfect example that a little hard work, a little humbleness, and a lot of kindness can lead you exactly where you need to be.

My heart aches for the future of this country and honestly, I’m terrified given the current White House tenants but reading Michelle Obama’s story gave me hope that we will all  go back to the basic principles and foundations of humanity and in the end, it will all be ok. We will be ok.