Listen to a Special Excerpt From Michelle Obama's New Memoir, 'Becoming'
Listen to a special excerpt from Michelle Obama's new memoir, 'Becoming.' The book has already sold thousands of copies across the country and has been chosen as Marie Claire's December #ReadWithMC book club pick. Find out more here.


Becoming is Marie Claire's December #ReadWithMC pick. In lieu of our monthly author Q&A; series, we're releasing a special audio excerpt of the book, below. Find out how to participate in our virtual book club here.
Michelle Obama has been embracing life's simplicities since she left 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue two years ago. In a recent interview with The Today Show's Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb, the former first lady told the hosts that she enjoys "the small things." She explains, "It’s opening my door and walking out and enjoying the weather and sitting on my patio."
Mrs. Obama took a much-deserved break after her stint as First Lady, but it wasn't long before she got back to work. She launched the Global Girls Alliance, a program that "seeks to empower adolescent girls around the world through education," and played an integral role in encouraging Americans to vote in the 2018 midterm elections. On top of this, she spent time writing her brand-new memoir—Marie Claire's December #ReadWithMC book club pick!—Becoming, an intimate glimpse into her life, including the journey to her historic role in the White House, her struggles with IVF, and how she found her voice.
The memoir sold 725,000 copies on the first day it was available (November 13) and became the fastest-selling book of 2018, according to Forbes. Now, Mrs. Obama is promoting the book on a speaking tour that began in her hometown of Chicago. It's safe to say that she's a busy woman, traveling across the country, giving us a look into the extraordinary life of one of the most famous and powerful women in the world.
Can't wait to start reading? Listen to a special audio excerpt of the opening pages of Becoming, below. As you follow along, share your thoughts using the hashtag #ReadWithMC to participate in Marie Claire's new monthly book club (more info here).
For more celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
RELATED STORY
Rachel Epstein is a writer, editor, and content strategist based in New York City. Most recently, she was the Managing Editor at Coveteur, where she oversaw the site’s day-to-day editorial operations. Previously, she was an editor at Marie Claire, where she wrote and edited culture, politics, and lifestyle stories ranging from op-eds to profiles to ambitious packages. She also launched and managed the site’s virtual book club, #ReadWithMC. Offline, she’s likely watching a Heat game or finding a new coffee shop.
-
How George, Charlotte, and Louis Secretly Spent Easter
The little royals were spotted in Sandringham, and hot cross buns were allegedly involved.
By Amy Mackelden
-
Slide a "Detour Destination" Into Your Next Travel Itinerary
The closest thing to two vacations in one.
By Gabriella Onessimo
-
Elizabeth Olsen Decks Herself in Her Sisters' Label for a Store Visit
She's their biggest fan.
By Kelsey Stiegman
-
The 'Fourth Wing' TV Show: Everything We Know About the Series Adaptation
Rebecca Yarros's bestselling romantasy series is getting the Prime Video series treatment.
By Quinci LeGardye
-
The 20 Best True Crime Books to Read in 2025
These nonfiction titles and memoirs about serial killers and scammers are the definition of page-turners.
By Andrea Park
-
Every Ruth Ware Book, Ranked—From 'In a Dark, Dark Wood' to 'The Woman in Cabin 10'
Here's what you should read before her new thriller 'The Woman in Suite 11' hits shelves.
By Nicole Briese
-
10 Books to Read for a Killer Vacation
Pack these novels about vacations gone very wrong on your next trip.
By Liz Doupnik
-
The Melancholic Sound of Success
The artist known as Japanese Breakfast opens up about finding her sound on a new album after experiencing whirlwind success.
By Sadie Bell
-
Every Jennifer Weiner Novel, Ranked—From 'Good in Bed' to 'In Her Shoes'
All hail the queen of beach reads!
By Nicole Briese
-
The 28 Best Romantasy Books to Read in 2025
Here's what to read when you've devoured the 'ACOTAR' and 'Empyrean' series.
By Andrea Park
-
Mary Ellen Matthews Is the Woman Behind Every Portrait on 'Saturday Night Live' Since 1999
The late-night show's resident photographer shares her favorite memories and insights from shooting all the talent who come through Studio 8H.
By Sadie Bell