Michelle Obama’s Becoming will be released in a young readers' edition and in trade paperback on March 2. Originally published in 2018, the former First Lady’s memoir became a #1 international bestseller, with sales topping more than 15 million copies worldwide, more than nine million of those in the U.S. and Canada.
Due from Delacorte Press, the young readers' adaptation of Becoming features a new introduction by Obama and three full-color photographic inserts. Adapted by Obama herself, the book is aimed at readers ages 10 and up. In this edition, the author shares her joys and triumphs as well as the bumps, bruises, and challenges she has encountered on her life’s journey, emphasizing that no one is perfect and that the ever-evolving process of becoming and finding oneself is what matters.
In her new introduction, Obama notes, “Growing up on the South Side of Chicago in the 1960s and ’70s, my parents, Fraser and Marian Robinson, always kept it straight with me and my brother, Craig. They never sugarcoated hard truths or presented their reality as anything other than what it was—because they knew we could handle it. I want to give you all that same respect.”
“Mrs. Obama’s story is universal and offers important representation for individuals who do not always see themselves in books for young people,” said Beverly Horowitz, senior v-p and publisher of Delacorte. “It shows that they and their choices matter and offers encouragement, especially as she recounts how teachers and others in authority did not believe she could achieve her dreams. This edition is part of Mrs. Obama’s mission to inspire and motivate all girls and boys to make bold choices no matter how tough it might seem.”
Further connecting with readers in the introduction to her children’s adaptation of her memoir, Obama added, “I hope that as you’re reading my story, you’ll also think about your own—because it’s the most beautiful gift you’ll ever have.”
The simultaneously released Crown trade paperback edition of Becoming also contains a new introduction, a letter from the author to her younger self, and a book club guide featuring 20 discussion questions and a five-question q&a. Both new editions carry a suggested list price of $18.99.
