A new book, penned by biographer Christopher Andersen, paints the First Couple’s marriage as rock solid, despite a few bumps in the road. ”What’s odd is that our first non-white first family is really the most all-American, down-to-earth couple we’ve ever had in the White House,” said Andersen according to USA TODAY. “They’re comfortable in their own skins.”
Hmmm, what I find odd is this statement. However, I am sure that Mr Andersen will sell lots of books and end up on the best seller list. His latest biography Barack & Michelle: Portrait of an American Marriage hits shelves today. Andersen is famous for writing such controversial and original biographies as Jack & Jackie: Portrait of an American Family, Jackie After Jack: Portrait of the Lady, and George & Laura: Portrait of an American Family.
What always amazes me about biographies like this is that the authors have gathered such great detail, without interviewing the main subjects. According to Andersen he interviewed over 200 people for the biography. I’m thinking just not the Obamas. Excerpts from the book reveal very personal conversations between the First Couple and people in their lives. There is even a conversation between the First Lady and her mother.
“Barack just doesn’t seem to care what I think,” a frustrated Michelle complained to her mother, Marian Robinson. “He can be so selfish – and I just can’t get through to him that we’re supposed to be in this together.”
I wonder where Andersen picked up that little tidbit? I don’t know about any of you, but I’m inclined to think that people who know intimate details about a high profile marriage aren’t talking and the ones who are, really don’t know.
Andersen’s biography credits the First Lady for convincing her husband to adopt the slogan, “yes we can”, the selection of Joe Biden as VP, and Justice Sotomayor to the Supreme Court. In short, the excerpt reads likes a hodgepodge of President Obama books past, campaign interviews, and gossip blogs. Andersen says that his book is “a positive story. A love story” and that “…the funny thing is you write a book about the ultimate power couple, but it’s really just another classic love story. People can connect with it. It’s hard to connect with a dynasty (the Kennedys) or a driven couple like the Clintons. They’re devoted to each other. It’s unique. They’re one of a kind.” The White House has yet to comment on the book.
Michelle Obama Watchers, you be the judge, to read an excerpt click here. I’m pulling out my library card for this one.
Posted by Aminah Hanan
No comments:
Post a Comment