First Ladies in Their Own Words
First Ladies in Their Own Words
Michelle Obama is the third former first lady in recent weeks announcing a new book: 'Overcoming–The Workbook' comes out in December.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama Thursday announced on Instagram the launch of her next book, Overcoming: A Workbook, that is based on her last published book The Light We Carry. Overcoming—The Workbook will come out on Dec. 3.
“It’s filled with thoughtful activities, reflective writing prompts, habit tracking tools, and more—all meant to help you unlock your power, show up in your relationships, and share your whole self with others,” Obama said in the post. “I can’t wait to hear what you think of it!”
The workbook will feature practical tools for navigating life’s challenges and fortifying oneself in the face of uncertainty, obstacles, and self-doubt, according to the book’s promotional website. Specifically, it will include creative activities, reflective writing prompts, habit tracking tools, and more to help readers share their whole self, show up in relationships, and of course, “go high.”
“With her signature candor and warmth, Obama draws on her experiences to offer readers the tools and principles she has leaned on to overcome difficulties in all areas of life,” the description reads.
With Overcoming, Obama notes it’s okay to prioritize your wellness and to make a habit of rest and repair.
This is the third book release announced from former first ladies in recent weeks.
Former First Lady Melania Trump announced on X her forthcoming memoir Melania. The book will be published by Skyhorse Publishing and will come out on Oct. 29.
In her memoir, the publisher describes Melania Trump reflecting on her Slovenian childhood, the pivotal moments that led her to the world of high fashion in Europe and New York, and the serendipitous meeting with Donald Trump—a chance encounter that forever changed the course of her life. Readers can expect Melania Trump to open up about their courtship, life in the spotlight, and experiencing the joy of motherhood. She also shares behind-the-scenes stories from her time in the White House, shedding light on her advocacy work and the causes close to her heart, according to the publisher.
And, Secretary Hillary Clinton will release a new book, Something Lost, Something Gained: Reflections on Life, Love, and Liberty, in the weeks leading up to the presidential election that describes the former first lady as a “Hillary like you haven’t seen before.” The book will come out on Sept. 17 and will offer a glimpse into her closest friendships and enduring marriage to former President Bill Clinton as well as her unvarnished views on politics, democracy, and threats.
Laura Bush and Michelle Obama and Their Spouses Among Honorary Chairs of Effort to Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary
America250 announced Thursday that First Ladies Laura Bush and Michelle Obama and their husbands President George W. Bush and President Barack Obama will serve as honorary national co-chairs of the official nonpartisan, nonprofit entity charged by Congress with planning the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
As honorary co-chairs, the presidential couples will lend their voices to the nationwide effort to mark the historic milestone, according to a statement released by America250, adding that their participation shows a continued dedication to service and commitment to their country.
“As America prepares for our nation’s 250th anniversary, we are proud to serve our country once again as honorary national co-chairs of America250,” said President George W. Bush and Mrs. Laura Bush in a combined statement. “This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on our history and recommit to our country’s founding values. We look forward to working with America250 and our fellow citizens to celebrate the goodness and greatness of the United States of America.”
Also in a joint statement, President Barack Obama and Mrs. Michelle Obama said:
“America is not the same country it was 250 years ago—but there are threads that tie us back to the very beginning of it all. Our history plays a big role in shaping the kind of future we hope to create. That’s why we could not be more thrilled to serve as Honorary National Co-Chairs of America250. We look forward to celebrating the Semiquincentennial and sharing the remarkable stories that make our nation the place it is today."
America250 Chair Rosie Rios, who served as Treasurer of the United States from 2009 to 2016, said she was thrilled about their participation.
“As presidents and first ladies of the United States, their stories are foundational to the American story. We hope that their unique voices will help encourage everyone to participate in this pivotal commemoration,” Rios said in the news release.
The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission was established by Congress in 2016 to plan and orchestrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The nonpartisan commission is comprised of bipartisan members of Congress and private citizens and is working with America250.org to engage Americans across the country in designing the largest and most inclusive anniversary in our nation’s history. America250 continues planning its multi-year-long commemorative activities leading up to the Semiquincentennial, engaging all 50 states and six U.S. territories, the private sector, and national and community-based organizations to achieve our mission.
Weekly Wrap
Weekly Wrap is a collection of headlines from the past week. Some publications have paywalls.
Vanity Fair
Doug Emhoff and Chasten Buttigieg Just Shattered Cher’s Record for Fire Island Fundraising
Aug. 2, 2024 — On a sticky August Friday afternoon on Fire Island, New York City’s second most illustrious summer weekend destination, Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff and First Secretary of Transportation Gentleman Chasten Buttigieg held the most successful fundraiser in the island’s history, according to event co-chair and former 18-year treasurer of the Democratic National Committee Andrew Tobias. He said the fundraiser brought in $310,000, beating the $200,000 haul for an event Cher showed up to in 2016. Read more
Slate
‘Momala’ and ‘Papa Bear’: The Second Gentleman Speaks Up for His Wife, and Out Against Donald Trump
Aug. 2, 2024 — Many political spouses spend decades preparing for a White House run with their partners. But attorney Doug Emhoff had been married to then-Senator Kamala Harris for just five years when she first ran for the White House. Now, as the first second gentleman in history, he’s stepping into the spotlight, sprinting across the country for her whirlwind campaign. On today’s episode of A Word, Jason Johnson talks with Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff about his family, his work combating anti-Semitism and other forms of hate, and campaigning with Vice President Kamala Harris. Listen here
Fox 5 Atlanta
Former First Lady Hillary Clinton Bringing Book Tour to Atlanta
July 30, 2024 — Former First Lady Hillary Clinton is set to return to Georgia as part of her fall tour, promoting her new book, "Something Lost, Something Gained." The event will take place at the Fox Theatre, where Mrs. Clinton will engage with audiences in a series of conversations on topics including politics, friendship, aging, and marriage. Read more
The Palm Beach Post
When Barron Trump Starts College in Fall 2024, Will Melania Trump Follow Him?
July 29, 2024 — Will Melania Trump follow her son Barron Trump to college? In about a month, Barron Trump, the sole child of Donald and Melania Trump, will attend fall 2024 classes at an unnamed university (as of Monday, July 29). Since the youngest child of Donald Trump graduated from Oxbridge Academy in West Palm Beach, Florida, the former first couple has been quiet about where he’ll go to college. Read more
Women’s Wear Daily
Jill Biden Puts Sheer Spin on the Classic Trenchcoat at the 2024 Paris Olympics
July 29, 2024 — First Lady Jill Biden elevated the classic trenchcoat with semi-sheer fabric while watching swimming events during the 2024 Paris Olympics on Saturday. FLOTUS later did a wardrobe change, fashioning a design by Ralph Lauren. Read more
Women’s Wear Daily
Jackie Kennedy's 95th Birthday: See the First Lady's Most Iconic Looks, From Her Ann Lowe Wedding Dress to That Pink Chanel Skirt Suit
July 28, 2024 — Jackie Kennedy Onassis’ style is symbolic of her legacy. The former first lady was credited with originating trends even after she left the White House, with pillbox hats, oversized frames and sleeveless shifts becoming the envy of women worldwide. Read more
In Case You Missed It
Dolley Madison and the War 1812
July 29, 2024 —The First Ladies Association for Research and Edication present author Libby Carty McNamee as she discusses the important role Dolley Madison played during the War of 1812. There is more than saving Washington's portrait. View here
Michelle Obama Sits Down with Melinda Gates in ‘Moments That Make Us’ Episode
July 24, 2024 — To celebrate turning 60, Melinda French Gates sat down with iconic changemakers of all ages to talk about their biggest life transitions for a special series, “Moments That Make Us.” In this episode, she chats with former First Lady Michelle Obama.
Obama shares with Gates what it felt like living in a new home after leaving the White House, saying it was “odd” coming down a different street to their private residence after her husband, Barack Obama finished his second term in office.
“I had a front door I could open,” she says.
The former First Lady also talks about the power of small actions, a discovery she made during the pandemic when she learned how to knit.
“Little, bitty stitches became something bigger,” she says. “We all own that small power.” View here
The First Ladies Podcast: Charities, Children & Change
July 22, 2024 — Kelly Marino discusses how the advocacy work of first ladies contributed to various campaigns and movements. The forgotten work of Julia Tyler, Abigail Fillmore, Harriet Lane, and Florence Harding is explored. Listen here