America’s First Ladies: Their Uncommon Wisdom, from Martha Washington to Laura Bush

Here are the personal philosophies, opinions, thoughts, witticisms, and feelings of such upstanding and quintessential Americans as Abigail Adams, Dolly Madison, Eleanor Roosevelt, Jacqueline Kennedy, Nancy Reagan, Barbara Bush, and Hillary Clinton. These women have been more than just wives of American Presidents. Their roles have included everything from negotiating with heads of state to redecorating the White House, from debating political issues to acting as advisors, confidantes, and diplomats. Through statements made during press interviews and in speeches and in writing, these women put into words what might otherwise have remained private: Abigail Adams proves herself to be a pioneer feminist; Eleanor Roosevelt defines life’s ultimate success; Lady Bird Johnson recounts a soul-enriching boat ride; and much more. What they have to say about marriage, child-rearing, success, happiness, beauty in the world, education, careers for women, women in politics, relationships, growing old, love, and living life to the fullest is powerful and profound. The pronouncements, pet peeves, gibes, and joys revealed in America’s First Ladies add texture to the more secretive administrations, and color to the sterner and more stoic ones.