03 May May Books of the Month by Ziyanda
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Publisher: Crown (2018)
The best-selling book in the US for the year in 2018 could have only been written by the best (former) First Lady to have graced this earth (no bias at all here). So well written and relatable, Becoming not only gives you a behind the scene glimpse of the Obama’s lives as the first family but also the story of Michelle as she becomes.
She takes you through her childhood and the people who shaped her character. Then growing up and starting her career and of course her relationship with Barack. And believe me, you will fall in love with him too!
Michelle, like her husband, is such an amazing writer. Her use of words and storytelling will have you so engrossed! And that’s the whole point of reading, right? To get lost and forget about anything going wrong in your life. I’m so excited about the Netflix documentary aligned to the book, I’m recommending that too already!
The Moment of Lift by Melinda Gates
Publisher: Pan Macmillan (2019)
“If you want to lift up humanity, empower women. It is the most comprehensive, pervasive, high-leverage investment you can make in human beings” – Melinda Gates
This quote pretty much summarizes the message of this book and the truth of life. Women are the backbone of society but are also the most marginalized. From girls being married off as young as age 7 to others being forced to undergo FGM (female genital mutilation), this books covers the most moving stories of challenges faced by women. And yet they (we) still manage to overcome!
What I appreciate about Melinda Gates is that she doesn’t try to act like an expert. When she shares her experiences on a certain topic she makes it clear that it’s purely from her perspective and acknowledges her status and point of privilege. But regardless of whether she’s talking from experience or sharing someone else’s story, there is always a lesson!
Book reviews by Ziyanda (@books_over_brekkie)
No Comments