——Becoming by Michelle Obama & Extraordinary, Ordinary People by Condoleezza Rice
Literature holds the power to illuminate the lives and experiences of individuals, inspiring readers to explore the depths of human existence. In the realm of autobiographical narratives, two influential and trailblazing women, Michelle Obama and Condoleezza Rice, have shared their remarkable stories with the world. Through their respective books, “Becoming” and “Extraordinary, Ordinary People,” these formidable authors invite readers to embark on an introspective journey, peering into their personal lives, triumphs, and struggles. Both books delve into the experiences of these renowned figures, extracting invaluable life lessons, and articulating their fascinating paths to success.
Michelle Obama’s “Becoming” recounts the tale of an extraordinary woman who grew up in humble beginnings on the South Side of Chicago to become the first African American First Lady of the United States. Through vivid anecdotes, poignant reflections, and candid insights, Obama explores her journey of self-discovery, grappling with issues of race, gender, and identity. Her memoir offers a unique lens into her role as a wife, mother, professional, and advocate, inspiring countless readers to embrace their own potential and strive for personal growth.
In contrast, Condoleezza Rice’s “Extraordinary, Ordinary People” presents a captivating narrative of a woman who overcame societal barriers to ascend as one of the most prominent figures in American politics. Rice, the first African American woman to hold the position of Secretary of State, invites readers into the world of her childhood in segregated Birmingham, Alabama, where she navigated the complexities of race during the transformative Civil Rights Movement. Her memoir illuminates the themes of resilience, leadership, and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of education.
By undertaking a comparative study of these two influential works, we aim to delve deeper into the lives of these remarkable women, examining the commonalities and unique features that shaped their narratives. Their intersecting experiences as African American women navigating a predominantly white male-dominated society grant us an opportunity to explore the converging forces that mold their remarkable stories. Ultimately, this comparative analysis seeks to unravel the underlying messages of empowerment, resilience, and breaking barriers that these women impart, igniting conversations on the significance of representation, leadership, and personal growth.
Through a meticulous examination of the themes, narrative structures, and rhetorical devices employed in “Becoming” and “Extraordinary, Ordinary People,” we can gain a comprehensive understanding of how these pivotal figures conquered adversity, harnessed their personal strengths, and defied societal expectations. Moreover, this comparative study will unveil the inherent power of storytelling in shedding light on marginalized experiences, captivating readers and driving movements for change and progress.
In the following chapters, we will explore the key aspects of Michelle Obama’s and Condoleezza Rice’s respective accounts, meticulously analyzing their backgrounds, personal identities, professional endeavors, and distinct narratives. Through this exploration, we will unlock valuable insights into their shared experiences and unique paths to success, emerging with a deeper appreciation for their contributions as trailblazers and inspirations in their own right.
Brief Summary of Two Books
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Becoming” is a memoir written by former First Lady Michelle Obama, published in 2018. The book chronicles her life, from her humble upbringing on the South Side of Chicago, to her journey through education, career, marriage, and motherhood, ultimately becoming the First Lady of the United States.
In the book, Obama vividly describes her childhood in a working-class African American community, emphasizing the importance of family, education, and perseverance. She discusses her experiences as a student at Princeton University and Harvard Law School, reflecting on the challenges she faced as a minority and her growing awareness of racial and gender inequality.
Obama also delves into her professional life, showcasing her work as a lawyer and public servant, and the impact she made in various organizations and initiatives focused on community development and public service.
The narrative takes a personal turn when she meets Barack Obama, her future husband, while working at a law firm. She provides an intimate and detailed account of their courtship, marriage, and their early years together as they navigate careers, politics, and family life.
With Barack’s political career gaining momentum, the book highlights the couple’s experiences during his presidential campaign and their time in the White House. Obama reflects upon the immense pressure, scrutiny, and sacrifices that came with the role of the First Lady, sharing insights into her advocacy for issues such as education, health, and military families.
Throughout “Becoming,” Michelle Obama’s voice is honest, warm, and inspiring. She shares personal anecdotes, vulnerabilities, and triumphs, ultimately delivering a relatable message of hope, resilience, and the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of adversity.
Extraordinary, Ordinary People by Condoleezza Rice
Extraordinary, Ordinary People” by Condoleezza Rice is a memoir that delves into the personal and professional life of the author, who served as the United States Secretary of State under President George W. Bush. The book explores Rice’s upbringing in segregated Birmingham, Alabama, and her journey to becoming one of the most influential figures in American politics.
Rice starts by vividly recounting her childhood in the racially divided South of the 1950s and 60s, highlighting the resilience and strength of her family amidst societal challenges. She addresses the impact of her parents and their unwavering support, ultimately shaping her character and ambition.
The memoir follows her academic journey, from her early education to her pursuit of higher education. Rice opens up about her passion for music and how it played a crucial role in shaping her early life. She shares how studying at Stanford University and working there as a professor propelled her towards a career in international affairs and politics.
Rice offers insights into her experiences serving in the White House as National Security Advisor and later as Secretary of State. She provides behind-the-scenes accounts of significant events, including the September 11 attacks and the subsequent wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Rice also reflects on her interactions with world leaders and the challenges she faced in advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives.
Throughout the memoir, Rice emphasizes the importance of perseverance, education, and family support in achieving success. She reveals the difficulties she faced as an African American woman in predominantly white and male-dominated fields, demonstrating her determination to succeed against the odds.
In “Extraordinary, Ordinary People,” Condoleezza Rice offers a captivating account of her journey, intertwining her personal narrative with the historical context of the United States. The book provides a unique perspective on her rise to prominence and serves as an inspiration for those facing adversity and striving for excellence in their own lives.
Comparison between Two Books
Similarities in Great Women
Becoming by Michelle Obama and Extraordinary, Ordinary People by Condoleezza Rice are both memoirs written by accomplished women who have made significant contributions to society. Despite their different backgrounds and career paths, there are notable similarities between the great women featured in these books.
1. Empowering Others: Both Michelle Obama and Condoleezza Rice share a common commitment to empowering others. They recognize the importance of mentorship and uplifting those around them. Obama, as the former First Lady, used her platform to encourage young girls and advocate for their education. Rice, as the first African American female Secretary of State, prioritized mentoring and supporting aspiring leaders.
2. Overcoming Struggles: Both women faced various challenges throughout their lives, highlighting their resilience and inner strength. Michelle Obama grew up in a modest working-class family, while Condoleezza Rice overcame racial discrimination during the height of the civil rights movement. Their stories reflect the determination to overcome adversity and achieve success.
3. Education as a Catalyst: Education played a pivotal role in the lives of these women. Both Obama and Rice emphasize the importance of academic pursuits and the transformative impact it had on their lives. They convey a sense of intellectual curiosity and emphasize the power of education in shaping their characters.
4. Breaking Barriers: Michelle Obama and Condoleezza Rice shattered glass ceilings in their respective fields. Obama, as the first African American First Lady of the United States, and Rice, as the first African American female Secretary of State, defied societal expectations and paved the way for future generations of women.
5. Global Perspective: Both women exhibit a global perspective and a commitment to international engagement. Michelle Obama, as First Lady, focused on promoting education globally through initiatives like the Let Girls Learn program. Condoleezza Rice, while serving as Secretary of State, played a crucial role in international diplomacy and emphasized the importance of engaging with other nations.
In conclusion, despite the differences in their personal backgrounds and career paths, Michelle Obama and Condoleezza Rice share several similarities as great women. They both prioritize empowering others, have overcome personal struggles, emphasize the transformative power of education, broke barriers in their respective fields, and exhibit a global perspective. Their memoirs serve as inspirational accounts of their lives and provide valuable insights into the experiences of remarkable women.
Divergences in Great Women
Both “Becoming” by Michelle Obama and “Extraordinary, Ordinary People” by Condoleezza Rice offer unique insights into the lives of two remarkable women, but they diverge in their focus and approach to highlighting the greatness of these women.
In “Becoming,” Michelle Obama recounts her journey from her humble roots on Chicago’s South Side to becoming the first African American First Lady of the United States. The book centers around her personal story and growth, diving deep into her experiences, emotions, and reflections on pivotal moments in her life. Obama shares her struggles, successes, and the lessons she learned along the way, offering a relatable and inspirational narrative that resonates with readers.
On the other hand, “Extraordinary, Ordinary People” by Condoleezza Rice takes a different approach in spotlighting greatness. Rice’s memoir focuses on her childhood, upbringing, and the influences that shaped her journey to becoming the first African American female Secretary of State. The book delves into the role her parents and community played in cultivating her intellectual curiosity, love for music, and determination to excel in various fields. Rice highlights the extraordinary individuals who surrounded her and inspired her to greatness, showcasing the transformative power of education and the supportive community behind her success.
While both books celebrate the achievements and resilience of these women, they diverge in their emphasis. “Becoming” primarily focuses on Michelle Obama’s personal growth and self-discovery throughout her life, emphasizing her own agency in becoming the woman she is today. By contrast, “Extraordinary, Ordinary People” places the spotlight on the community, mentors, and influential figures who played a crucial role in shaping Condoleezza Rice’s life. The book underscores the importance of a supportive network and the belief that ordinary people can lead extraordinary lives with the right guidance and opportunities.
In summary, “Becoming” highlights Michelle Obama’s personal growth and journey, while “Extraordinary, Ordinary People” underscores the influential figures and supportive community that shaped Condoleezza Rice’s path to greatness. Both books offer valuable insights into the lives of two remarkable women, showcasing different perspectives on what it means to be a great woman.
Conclusion
This ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you are looking to gain from reading the book. Both books offer unique perspectives and insights into the lives of influential women in politics.
“Becoming” by Michelle Obama is a highly acclaimed memoir that explores her personal journey from childhood in Chicago to becoming the First Lady of the United States. It delves into her experiences with race, education, motherhood, and her role in public service. The book offers a candid and heartfelt account of her life and the challenges she faced.
“Extraordinary, Ordinary People” by Condoleezza Rice is also a memoir, but it focuses more on Rice’s upbringing and the influence her parents had on shaping her values and aspirations. It offers an inside look into her life growing up in racially divided Birmingham, Alabama, and her journey to becoming the first African-American woman to serve as the United States Secretary of State. It emphasizes the importance of education and personal drive in achieving success.
Therefore, if you are interested in a memoir that focuses on a former First Lady’s experiences and the impact of her public role, “Becoming” may be the book for you. On the other hand, if you are intrigued by Condoleezza Rice’s personal journey, her upbringing, and the influences that shaped her political career, “Extraordinary, Ordinary People” may be more fitting.
Ultimately, both books offer valuable insights into the lives of two influential women, and it is worth considering what specific aspects or themes you are most interested in before making a decision.
