Week 12 - Readers' Advisory Matrix

Readers' Advisory Matrix for Becoming by Michelle Obama (2018)

1. Where is the book on the narrative continuum? This book is high on the narrative continuum. It reads very much like a novel. 2. What is the subject of the book? Michelle’s early life and humble beginnings in 1960s and ‘70s Chicago that led her to become a mother, wife, activist, and First Lady of the United States. 3. What type of book is it?   This book is a memoir. 4. Articulate Appeal: What is the pacing? The pacing is slow. Michelle goes into great detail to describe her early life, in particular. The house she grew up in, her extended family, friends, and schooling. This detail continues as she expounds on becoming a lawyer, meeting Barack Obama, starting their family, and their ascendancy to the White House. Describe the characters: Since this a memoir, the “characters” are real (and very public) people. Michelle Obama and her family, including Barack and their children, are described in detail as hard-working, caring people. How does the story feel? The story feels like a wise older sister explaining to us how she became a strong, smart, black woman and how you, too, can be a strong, smart person of any color, age, or gender. What is the intent of the author? The intent is chiefly to inform the reader about Michelle’s life and show how she is “just like everyone else”... while imparting wisdom and offering a window into the extraordinary adventure of becoming First Lady. What is the focus of the story? The focus of the story is Michelle’s life from childhood to the present. Does the language matter? Yes, the language is accessible but also contemplative at times. Is the setting important and well-described? The settings are very well-described, first as Chicago where Michelle grew up, then college and beyond to the White House. The settings are very important in this book. Are there details, and if so, of what? Yes, photos are included starting with Michelle as a baby, throughout her childhood, meeting Barack, and their years in the White House. Are there sufficient charts and other graphic materials? Are they useful and clear?  N/A Does the book stress moments of learning, understanding, or experience? Yes, Michelle imparts significant wisdom starting with the way that her hard-working parents valued family and education. The bulk of the book centers around Michelle “becoming” who she is today through her experiences and growth. Through this telling, she is able to impart wisdom to the reader about using their own voice to make a difference in their life and the lives of others. Why would a reader enjoy this book? Rank appeal: 1. Subject 2. Feel of the story 3. Details