Born and raised in the South side of Chicago, Obama comments on her early years growing up with her family, describing her admiration for her parents and how they instilled a strong work effort from a young age. Despite her high school teachers remark, that she was not “Princeton Material”, Obama was able to power through any controversy and hate by creating her own path. Through her parents guidance and her own hard work, Obama attended Princeton University and Harvard Law School, breaking down barriers that society created around her. As the novel continues, Obama dives into her marriage with former president, Barack Obama, presenting the struggles that came with the title.  

Michele Obama draws readers into her intimate life in the novel Becoming; shedding light on her experience as an African American woman in the United States and becoming the First Lady. The memoir describes her personal experience, her roots, how she discovered her voice, as well as her life in the White House as the first African American presidential family. 

 The memoir centres itself around the theme of self-discovery, describing the years and experiences that led to Michelle Obama becoming who she is today. The title itself is meant for the reader to reflect on who they hope to become and how they will shape their path to success. As an African American woman, Michelle Obama hopes to empower young women across the world to fight against any negativity they experience. Acting as a role model for the next generation of powerful black women, she is able to light a fire within their hearts and become who they aspire to be.