Becoming

About the Author

Michelle Obama, born Michelle LaVaughn Robinson on January 17, 1964, in Chicago, Illinois, is an American lawyer, university administrator, and writer. Best known for being the first African American First Lady of the United States, Michelle has continually used her platform to advocate for education, poverty awareness, and healthy living. Her journey from the working-class South Side of Chicago to the White House is a testament to her resilience, intelligence, and determination. Michelle's story is one of breaking barriers and defying expectations, all while maintaining her authenticity and commitment to her roots.

Michelle's parents, Fraser and Marian Robinson, played an instrumental role in shaping her character and values. Fraser, despite being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at a young age, worked diligently to provide for his family, embodying the values of hard work and perseverance. Marian, a homemaker who later worked as a secretary at a bank, instilled in Michelle the importance of education and self-respect. These foundational lessons were crucial in Michelle's development, helping her navigate the challenges of being a Black woman in predominantly white institutions like Princeton University and Harvard Law School.

Michelle's marriage to Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, brought her into the global spotlight. As First Lady, she focused on initiatives that addressed critical issues such as childhood obesity, military family support, and girls' education. Her memoir, "Becoming," published in 2018, offers an intimate look at her life, from her childhood in Chicago to her years in the White House, and her continuing journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

Main Idea

"Becoming" is more than a memoir; it is a profound exploration of personal growth, identity, and the perpetual journey of self-discovery. Michelle Obama uses her life story to illustrate the idea that becoming is a continuous process—there is no final destination, but rather an evolving understanding of oneself and one’s purpose in the world. Through her narrative, Michelle highlights the importance of resilience, authenticity, and the power of owning one’s story. The memoir is a reflection on her life’s journey, emphasizing that every experience, whether triumphant or challenging, contributes to the ongoing process of becoming who we are meant to be.

Table of Contents

1. Becoming Me
2. Becoming Us
3. Becoming More

Becoming Me

The section titled "Becoming Me" provides an in-depth look at Michelle Obama’s early life and the experiences that shaped her identity. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, Michelle was surrounded by a close-knit community that valued hard work and education. Her parents were her first and most influential role models. Fraser Robinson, her father, worked at the city’s water plant despite suffering from multiple sclerosis, teaching Michelle the importance of perseverance and dedication. Her mother, Marian, was the anchor of the family, nurturing Michelle's intellectual curiosity and ensuring that she stayed grounded and focused on her goals.

Michelle’s upbringing was humble but rich in values and love. Living in a small apartment with her parents and brother, Craig, Michelle learned the value of discipline and ambition early on. Her parents’ emphasis on education led her to excel academically, eventually earning her a spot at Princeton University. However, her transition to Princeton was not without its challenges. As one of the few Black students on campus, Michelle often felt out of place and questioned whether she truly belonged in such a prestigious institution. She recalls, "

It was as if, by attending Princeton, I had landed on an alien planet where no one looked like me, spoke like me, or shared my background.

Despite these challenges, Michelle thrived academically, majoring in sociology and African American studies. Her time at Princeton helped her develop a strong sense of self and a deeper understanding of the systemic inequalities that affected communities like the one she grew up in. These experiences fueled her desire to make a difference in the world, leading her to Harvard Law School, where she continued to excel and refine her vision for the future.