Michelle Obama Books In Order

Publication Order of Non-Fiction Books

Publication Order of Collections

Publication Order of Anthologies

About Michelle Obama

Michelle Obama, a name synonymous with grace and intelligence, carved a significant path before stepping onto the global stage as the First Lady of the United States from 2009 to 2017. Her academic journey is impressive, with degrees from Princeton University as well as Harvard Law School, cultivating a strong foundation in law and public service. Her professional life began at a prominent Chicago law firm, Sidley & Austin, where fate intertwined her path with Barack Obama, her future partner in life and politics. Beyond just legal practice, Michelle dedicated her time to enhancing community welfare in Chicago, showcasing her commitment to public service early on.

Her career trajectory took an intriguing turn as she engaged in pivotal roles within the city’s fabric, working closely with the Chicago mayor’s office and enriching the educational landscape through her contributions to the University of Chicago and the University of Chicago Medical Center. However, Michelle’s passion for nurturing future leaders shone brightly as she established the Chicago chapter of Public Allies. This endeavor highlights her vision of empowering the youth, preparing them for meaningful roles in public service, echoing her belief in the transformative power of community engagement and leadership development.

Adding to her list of achievements, Michelle Obama ventured into the world of literature, authoring the globally acclaimed memoir, ‘Becoming,’ along with ‘American Grown,’ both of which soared to the top of bestseller lists. Through her writing, she invites readers into her world, sharing insights from her life’s journey, from her roots to her role on the world stage, and her ongoing mission. Michelle’s narrative is not just about her accomplishments but also reflects her continuous contribution to society by inspiring others to pursue their paths with courage and determination.

Early and Personal Life

Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama was born in 1964 on the 17th of January in Chicago, Illinois. Growing up, her father, Fraser Robinson III, worked at a city water plant and was active in local politics, while Marian Shields Robinson, her mother, was a stay-at-home mom until Michelle entered high school. From an early age, Michelle learned the value of hard work and determination from her parents, shaping her into a driven and engaged individual.

Michelle excelled in school, motivated by her father’s struggle with multiple sclerosis to avoid trouble and do well academically. This resilience and focus on education stemmed from a supportive family environment that emphasized the importance of striving for excellence. The rich cultural and historical background of her family also played a significant role in developing her sense of identity and purpose.

Pursuing higher education, Michelle attended Princeton University, where she earned a degree in sociology and minored in African American studies, graduating in 1985. Despite facing discouragement and challenges along the way, she persevered, later attending Harvard Law School to further her education and commitment to social justice. Michelle’s experiences at these institutions deepened her understanding of community issues and solidified her dedication to making a positive impact on society.

Writing Career

Michelle Obama embarked on her journey as a writer with the release of ‘American Grown: The Story of the White House Kitchen Garden and Gardens Across America’ in 2012. This book, published by Crown Publishing Group, shares the inspiring story of the White House Kitchen Garden and the broader movement towards healthy eating and gardening across the United States. Her first foray into writing set the tone for a career that would blend personal insights with impactful themes.

Continuing her work as an author, Michelle released ‘Becoming’ in 2018, a deeply personal memoir that quickly became a global sensation, offering an intimate look at her life, beliefs, and the experiences that have shaped her. Following the success of ‘Becoming,’ she authored ‘The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times’ in 2022, further establishing her voice and continuing her conversation with the world.

Michelle Obama’s career as a writer is marked by her thoughtful exploration of personal and societal growth, showcasing her ongoing commitment to inspiring others through her words.

Becoming

Michelle Obama’s memoir, ‘Becoming,’ was published on November 13, 2018, by Crown. It was recognized for its profound impact, receiving the Audie Award for Autobiography/Memoir in 2020, and was nominated for the Los Angeles Times Book Prize for Current Interest and the Goodreads Choice Award for Memoir & Autobiography in 2018, as well as winning the NAACP Image Award for Biography/Autobiography in 2019.

In her enriching memoir, Michelle shares the journey of her life marked by significant achievements and profound moments as the first African American First Lady of the United States. She played a pivotal role in making the White House a symbol of inclusivity, advocated passionately for women and girls globally, and promoted health and fitness across American families, all while navigating the challenges of public life and parenting.

Her narrative, characterized by authenticity and humor, covers her formative years in Chicago, her professional and personal life challenges, and her experiences at the epicenter of American politics. ‘Becoming’ is not just her story told on her terms, but also an invitation to others to reflect on their paths and inspire strength and resilience.

It’s a powerful testament to inclusivity, advocacy, and resilience, warmly inviting others to recognize their potential. This award-recognized book is a must-read for those seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of one of the most influential figures of our time.

The Light We Carry

‘The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times,’ authored by Michelle Obama, was released on November 15, 2022, by Crown. The memoir has been acknowledged for its impactful narrative, earning nominations for three Audie Awards in 2024, including Business/Personal Development, Spanish Language, and Narration by the Author, and a NAACP Image Award nomination for Biography/Autobiography in 2023.

Here Michelle Obama engages readers in an earnest discussion about navigating life’s significant challenges, utilizing personal tools for stability amidst uncertainty. She shares personal stories and reflections on overcoming obstacles through the cultivation of meaningful relationships, embracing differences, and confronting self-doubt. Drawing on her roles as a public figure and her personal journey, Obama outlines practical strategies for adaptability and resilience, such as the importance of kindness, aiming high, and relying on a supportive community.

Her book encourages self-exploration and bold living, emphasizing the power of recognizing and harnessing one’s own inner light to foster societal progress and personal fulfillment.