Finding My Voice: My Journey to the West Wing and the Path Forward

Hmm, do some of these politically motivated negative reviewers not know that people can see what they are up to? If they actually bought and read the book (which they probably didn’t) then, if I may be so bold as to presume on her behalf, I am sure Ms.Jarrett thanks you for listening. If you didn’t buy the book or read it, but felt the need to provide a negative comment, bless your heart.

I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did. I loved the warmth and feelings and experiences Valerie Jarrett shared. I envy her the friendships and family and love in her life, but even more I envy her the opportunities she shared. Bravo!

The audio book was sensational. The delivery was outstanding. The book was certainly a fantastic journey.

Well written with layers of information I would not have known or comprehended without this book. It gives me courage to persevere in any challenges I encounter. So glad I read this book.

This book was well written and gave me the unique perspective of Valerie Jarrett. She especially has advice to women on how to find their voice and to speak up for their needs. My book club read the book and the members highly recommended it as one of their favorites. Do not be discouraged by the negative comments of some of the reviewers as most admit they did not read the book. There comments are more to spread a political agenda.

Valerie Jarrett was a long-term adviser to President Barack Obama, so I believed this book might contain insight into increasing a positive view of his administration. It doesn't flow, and I couldn't read it beyond a few pages. Not worth the money or the effort.

Terrible read. I was half way then I gave it away to Goodwill

Leisure reading, interesting and inspiring.

Enjoyed getting to know this optimistic, accomplished woman, and follow her path to the West Wing as a senior advisor to President Obama. Many lessons about staying the course and focusing on your true North during life's inevitable storms. Thought provoking references to having "a village" of family to raise and motivate your children with rich support systems. And to finding your voice as a woman in the halls and board rooms of influence with all the challenges our bodies and emotions naturally go through. She encourages us to push ourselves to provide a place for those unique challenges in our workplaces. Which leads me to my next read by Melinda Gates. The author takes us with her on an amazing journey. Her nuggets of experience from her family and her life are true treasures she shares with her readers. Her story is worth sharing with our daughters and sons! Her writing style is easy to read and brings joy and tears. Having also read, "The Long Game" by Senator Mitch McConnell I was eager to see her side of the lack of bipartisan cooperation that he spoke of when referring to working with the Obama Executive branch, and it's there in black and white. Very interesting to see how polarized and crippling our government can become with each side of our two party system oblivious to their part in the break down. Read both books. Great leadership can't accomplish much when it only wants to share a conversation from its own view point and can't see others have a different background, viewpoint, experience in this same great country. I enjoyed the book of this positive influencer! She brings value to the page.

I loved it

Hmm, do some of these politically motivated negative reviewers not know that people can see what they are up to? If they actually bought and read the book (which they probably didn’t) then, if I may be so bold as to presume on her behalf, I am sure Ms.Jarrett thanks you for listening. If you didn’t buy the book or read it, but felt the need to provide a negative comment, bless your heart.

I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did. I loved the warmth and feelings and experiences Valerie Jarrett shared. I envy her the friendships and family and love in her life, but even more I envy her the opportunities she shared. Bravo!

The audio book was sensational. The delivery was outstanding. The book was certainly a fantastic journey.

Well written with layers of information I would not have known or comprehended without this book. It gives me courage to persevere in any challenges I encounter. So glad I read this book.

This book was well written and gave me the unique perspective of Valerie Jarrett. She especially has advice to women on how to find their voice and to speak up for their needs. My book club read the book and the members highly recommended it as one of their favorites. Do not be discouraged by the negative comments of some of the reviewers as most admit they did not read the book. There comments are more to spread a political agenda.

Valerie Jarrett was a long-term adviser to President Barack Obama, so I believed this book might contain insight into increasing a positive view of his administration. It doesn't flow, and I couldn't read it beyond a few pages. Not worth the money or the effort.

Terrible read. I was half way then I gave it away to Goodwill

Leisure reading, interesting and inspiring.

Enjoyed getting to know this optimistic, accomplished woman, and follow her path to the West Wing as a senior advisor to President Obama. Many lessons about staying the course and focusing on your true North during life's inevitable storms. Thought provoking references to having "a village" of family to raise and motivate your children with rich support systems. And to finding your voice as a woman in the halls and board rooms of influence with all the challenges our bodies and emotions naturally go through. She encourages us to push ourselves to provide a place for those unique challenges in our workplaces. Which leads me to my next read by Melinda Gates. The author takes us with her on an amazing journey. Her nuggets of experience from her family and her life are true treasures she shares with her readers. Her story is worth sharing with our daughters and sons! Her writing style is easy to read and brings joy and tears. Having also read, "The Long Game" by Senator Mitch McConnell I was eager to see her side of the lack of bipartisan cooperation that he spoke of when referring to working with the Obama Executive branch, and it's there in black and white. Very interesting to see how polarized and crippling our government can become with each side of our two party system oblivious to their part in the break down. Read both books. Great leadership can't accomplish much when it only wants to share a conversation from its own view point and can't see others have a different background, viewpoint, experience in this same great country. I enjoyed the book of this positive influencer! She brings value to the page.

I loved it

I loved how Ms. Jarrett gives the reader an otherwise unknown perspective on the Obama years and the Obamas. Delightful. It brought me to tears at the end when she sums up the progress made during those years and tries to give hope that despite the setbacks that our vile president has caused, all is not lost and the tide will turn.

I enjoyed the artful blend of past and present,which explains the length.Masterful story teller.Recommend to everyone. Will give as gifts

Valerie Jarett has an interesting background: born in Iran, educated at Harvard, corporate lawyer, public service with Mayor Washington in Chicago, and then senior advisor to President Obama in the White House. Fascinating. But her book does not present a balanced view of the story. It reviles the Republicans, who did do their best to undermine President Obama, but that was their job. Hillary Clinton was barely mentioned and Libya was not mentioned, to mention only a few. However, it was an interesting inside view of working for President Obama for eight years by an influential but little known senior advisor who was perhaps the closest staff member to the Obamas. I purchased and read this book because I had enjoyed reading Michelle Obama's Becoming from which I learned of the Obama's personal friendship with this author.

Good read, especially after reading Michelle & Barack Obamas’ memoirs. Strong, powerful, classy, successful woman role model without being heavy-handed.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was well written and inspirational. It’s easy to see the pattern of reviews from those who haven’t purchased (and likely haven’t read) this book. Kudos to Valerie! Go Girl, and shake the haters off. Don’t let jealousy, racism, and fear stop you from telling your story. We need to hear more voices like yours and not the stereotypical images that have shaped the idiotic debates we see on cable news shows.

Rich history Fearless leader Loving mother This book shows the intricate journey of changing policy and finding your voice through life’s obstacles and challenges. I love the relevancy of having an inside glimpse of the West Wing. Thank you Valerie for your vulnerability and willingness to let us into your diverse journey.

Valerie’s story of her life and career in Chicago and Washington D.C. was compelling and heartfelt.I highly recommend this book to women at all stages of their career.

Valerie Jarrett tells the charming, honest and sometimes uncomfortably intimate story of her life. I listened on Audible and her voice is so soft, gentle and intelligent. What courage, drive, and heart! I hope she runs for office one day! She's got my vote!

A must read.....I believe everyone man and woman can relate to this book in one way or another. Very inspiring encouraging story of overcoming.

It is an interesting and informative story of her life and career. It shows how her experiences informs her current life. Enjoy reading it.

One of the best books I have read. Very accomplished woman who gives you an understanding of the inner workings of the Obama administration.

A journey not expected. A wonderful story of family, service to country and service to a wonderful President and his administration.

I’m now an even bigger fan of Valerie Jarrett. Very well written, provided insight not just to the Obamas but to the political system in general. I always love a book that gives a bit of a view behind the curtain. This one delivers just that.

I am really enjoying this book! It is well written, and her writing is authentic -- heartfelt! Thank you Valerie for caring so deeply about society! We are our brothers' and sisters' keeper!

Good book...I felt like the author was sharing her experiences w me personally. I didn’t want it to end.

I learned a lot by reading it. Thank you Valerie for writing it.

What a privilege to read your fine,honest,and encouraging book in these difficult, heart wrenching time. I hurry to buy copies for my son's. With love and all best wishes, Liliane

This is an excellent book. You should purchase it.

This book came in great shape.

Sharing her Journey Was enriching and insightful. she was a great mentor and then friend of an outstanding couple. She is an inspiration to all girls.

This book is so good that after getting it from the library, I got halfway through and purchased it so I can have it in my library forever.

GREAT READ

A must buy! Great read with a very specialized perspective on women, politics and America!

The positive story about the most popular couple for black people in America. A teaching model for young black students.

Did not flow well for me.

This book compliments former First Lady Michelle Obama’s book, Becoming, perfectly. It’s nice to hear everyone’s personal experiences throughout the Obama era of “Hope” and “Change.”

The book is good, but its not as interesting as I thought it would be.

Good

Great book

Finding my voice , was the perfect title. Valarie Jarrett is a remarkable woman. Her story was interesting and uplifting.

I just finished reading this book with my virtual book club. We really enjoyed it.

Hard work and resulting success

I enjoyed reading about Ms. Jarrett's life and her background. Also, hearing the back story of events that was reported in the news.

Love the pictures

Enjoyed it!

Valerie Jarrett was a long-term advisor to President Barack Obama during the Obama Administration, but it is most likely that you remember her name from Roseanne’s nasty tweet about her. This biography is extremely well written and highly readable. In fact, it reads like a novel.

Fantastic read! I found “Finding My Voice” to be approachable, enjoyable, and satisfying. In particular, I enjoyed reading the human side of Ms. Jarrett. I suppose that I thought someone who attend Stanford, Michigan Law, and advised President Obama dropped from heaven and did not face (and overcome!) many challenges all of us face. The pictures of her family along with the prose support this point. Additionally, I enjoyed reading about the experience of working so closely with President & Mrs. Obama before they were President & Mrs. Obama. The manner in which they have blended their personal and professional relationships is unique and fascinating. Of course, people will want to read about the Affordable Care Act. She covers it from a different and enlightening angle. I highly recommend “Finding My Voice” and its inspirational story of someone who overcame challenges (and continually displayed excellence) to reach the highest levels of power.

Nearly incoherent book. How is this a NY Times best seller

And what an impressive life. The country’s longest-tenured senior presidential advisor was born into a family who prized education. They saw their hard-won degrees as keys with which to enter fulfilling careers, a sort of rocket fuel to enable them to possibly escape the gravity of racial prejudice in America. Jarrett was born in Iran during the time of the late Shah. This was not due to her parents’ wanderlust but because her Dad, upon finishing medical school, could not get a residency in Chicago. She notes how bizarre it was to live a doctor’s family, middle-class lifestyle in a repressive country but could not have done the same in the U.S. Jarrett used her Stanford undergrad and Michigan law school degrees to work for the mayor’s office in Chicago. This section felt a bit inside baseball, but God bless Jarrett for working so diligently on behalf of the poor in that city. (And shame on people who use “Chicago Politics” as shorthand (code?) for incompetence and corruption when people of the quality of Jarrett worked there.) One day Jarrett got a sizzling resume and offered twenty-six-year-old Michelle Robinson a job right at the interview. The future-FLOTUS hesitated on the grounds that her fiancé had questions. Oh, does he, now? But instead of being thanked and dismissed, Jarrett agrees to meet with her and the future-POTUS, perhaps recognizing them as her tribe (Ivy League, Law School, Harvard, etc.). As we all know, all three became great good friends. The “finding my voice” refrain seemed a wee bit grafted on. OK, she had a bad marriage and didn’t give the husband an ultimatum at “Housewives” speed. But by the time she’s in the West Wing she’s convening meetings with PBO and female staffers and make sure he understands the difficulties they have in being heard. One dreaded the end of this memoir as it inevitably leads to our current misery. But we must hope, pray, and give rise to a new generation of public servants as bright, joyous, and determined as Ms. Jarrett to steer the country into a more kind, more intelligent direction. (BTW, the one-star reviews are puzzling. On the one hand they're savvy enough to seek out and buy a memoir by a senior White House advisor, yet their arguments are less compelling than an eight year old demanding girls be not allowed into the tree house. A real head-scratcher.)

Very interesting story about her life and perspective on African American culture and challenges despite her families wealth and access. I never fully understood the "why" about her birth and life in Iran. Also interesting to read about what many women believed were "musts": education, marriage, children, in that order, in order for life to be "perfect". This story is not about the Obamas. It's more about womanhood and what defined us during a time period and what success may actually look like. It's not a "deep" read. But it's a story that definitely made me think about womanhood, race, wealth, access, and culture, and all the ways we try to define, approve of, and explain ourselves. I enjoyed it.

I read one of the ghost books that went into making this a NYT bestseller and, although it was very light and easy to hold, and frankly...free of charge, I found it devoid of substance, ink and even paper! Next time I choose a ghost book, I will be more discerning!

Pure crap!!!! I didn't know so much could be shoveled in 320 pages..

Look, I'm a Republican. So I don't agree with a lot of Jarrett's positions or her portrayal of her political opponents. But she tells her story in an interesting and engaging way. I found it very readable. Her life growing up in Iran as the daughter of two highly accomplished African-american professionals is inherently interesting. And I loved the overall modesty which is so rare in a political memoir. It is the story of the Obama presidency as told from the inside by a source without an obvious agenda.

This particular product book was very well written, and I enjoyed the reading experience of this book. I was spellbound, laughed, cried, and felt the entire gamut of emotions in the enjoyable process of reading. It was that powerful of a fascinating book. The author pulled no punches in expressing the particular subject matter he or she addressed. When critics say this book is not worth reading, take my word for it: do not listen to them and do exactly the opposite of their advice. That is to say, you SHOULD read it.

I loved this book. This book is part-memoir, part-insight into the experiences of the author and Mrs. and President Obama before and during their White House years. This book covers so much ground. I loved learning so much about such an amazing, strong, intelligent, selfless, inspirational, hopeful, realistic, and wonderful woman such as Valerie Jarrett. I learned so much about local politics from behind the scenes and about Chicago itself. I also loved seeing her journey and transformation into the woman we know and admire today. I truly, truly loved reading everything involving Mrs. Michelle Obama and former President Barack Obama. I am just continually awed by their integrity, strength, compassion, and hard work. I enjoyed the personal photos that were selected for this book and will keep this copy I have purchased on my shelf for many years to come. I hope to instill into my son the lessons that are brought forth from Ms. Jarrett so that he, as the next generation, can help to progress and uphold all that makes this country great, and help to make it even better for those to come.

Amazing book! Only 5 copies sold (so far) but its already on the NYT Best Seller List! Pure magic! Genius!

After reading this book and Ben Rhodes’ The World As It Is, I am struck by how intelligent, principled and hardworking members of the Obama administration were. They tried so hard to contribute positively to the world particularly those most in need. It is such a sharp contrast to what we’re seeing today. I only hope what they say about how each president is succeeded by an opposite is true. Any one of the two dozen contestants will do.

Save your money.

I honestly don't understand the people who gave this book a negative review. She simply tells her story and shares how she learned to find her voice and use her talents for the common good. I suppose if one isn't really interested in politics a lot of what's here wouldn't be that interesting, but I was fascinated to learn more about the internal workings of Chicago politics and later on, the day-to-day experience of working closely with President Obama in the White House. I applaud her for all that accomplished in Chicago and for offering wonderful support to Michelle and Barack Obama. I've recommended this book to a number of friends and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone who cares to learn how an intelligent, highly motivated woman overcame her own personal limitations and found success.

I wanted to love this book. I didn’t. It’s poorly written.

This is definitely one of the best audiobooks or books period that I’ve ever read. It reminded me of the format of Michelle Obama’s book “Becoming” (which I absolutely adored). Like “Becoming” it left me wanting to hear more and more. I learned a lot, identified with some of her workplace struggles, empathized with her experiences, and was inspired by her vision. Truly this book was a wonderful pick-me-up from the divisive politics that we now live in and has given me more hope in my every day life. It has grounded me in the potential of what the US could be when we work towards justice and equality at every turn.

Looked at this in the bookstore in the mall. Geez if you have insomnia this could be the solution. She has little to nothing to say and her writing abilities are lacking decent prose. I read a few pages, skipped ahead read a few more then decided I'd add more to my life with a Mad Magazine.

I am amazed this is such an expensive book. The worst part is that that there is no deal on the Audiuble edition which is VERY expensive and it's not even whisper synced. So checked it out from the library and sure won't be spending all that money.

What a waste.

This book tells us nothing. Had she talked about her plan to get rid of Roseanne with her girl pal, it would have been interesting.

Excitement right from the very first word! Wow. Just wow. And it gets even better when you get to second word. I’m not quite done with the first paragraph because i need to take excitement like this in small doses.

As a Chicago native, I really enjoyed reading this book. It has a nice flow and rhythm to it. Interesting window into Chicago life and prominent Blacks in the city.

Beautiful book. Valerie Jarrett lets us into her life and brings us on the journey with her. She is candid and I was personally really inspired by her path and how she left a well paying corporate law position to work for the City of Chicago. All the stories that happened at the White House and getting that perspective made me grateful such an honourable group pf people were in the White House for so long. It also makes me wonder what this administration would do if they were given a suitcase of rubies as gifts from a middle eastern oil-producing country, would they return it? Excellent book, similar to Michelle Obama's book. Highly recommend.

I knew very little about Valerie Jarrett before reading this book. I must say that am soooo impressed by Ms. Jarrett's life, her accomplishments, her marvelous family history that I simply did notwant the book to end. She is a marvel. A must read for political junkies!

Thought it might be an interesting read, but it is simply so poorly written AND filled with alarming dishonesty.... pure rubbish and not worth the paper it is written on. Save yourself the money....NOT WORTH BUYING!!

Excellent. Like standing on her shoulders for a bird's-eye view. Moving and inspiring. Mid-way cannot wait to finish. Savoring every bit.

A fascinating memoir of public service. Surrounded by societal created obstacles, Valerie Jarrett rose above them time and again to facilitate stronger, healthier, more cohesive communities. From there she strove to do the same in the world of politics as a behind the scenes team player on several fronts. Great book!

Tucker Carlson wrote a great review

One of the best autobiographies I've read. This isn't about Obama but her story through and through and it's so compelling. Thank you Valerie Jarret.

A wealth of knowledge, experience and wisdom that can help others find their voice.

Terrible

Very slow and just eh. Dont recommend. Wanted to like it so much more

This is a very inspiring book to read. I highly recommend reading this book....you will feel good about America And learn about the operations of the White House.

Good interesting read. Interesting insight. I enjoyed it.

I read this cover to cover. I enjoyed learning about her early life and career. Buy this if you are early in your career trying to find your voice. You can learn from Valerie.

Friend gave me her copy... lmfao...trash. After 25 pages I was more than happy to give it back.

I did not know that Valerie Jarrett was such an engaging writer. She can stop looking. She has most definitely found her voice.

Talk about pissing your money away. Book sucks!!!! It will make a good door stop or kindling.

Excellent book.

Graceful storytelling & inspirational. Love her friendship with the Obamas, her insight & perspective. Obviously, she is a good-hearted human being!!

I enjoyed the wholesomeness of this book. As a professional woman and mother, I am truly inspired. Thank you

interesting up is down down is up black is white white is black nothing as it seems nothing is as it appears and all is made to be WEIRD!

Awesome read!

I liked reading about her life.

Valerie shared the ride with the Obamas as they grew to stature from their international childhood, the south side of Chicago through the Ivy League, law schools and the tumultuous years of elections and all that was accomplished in the White House that made America a better place than when they came into the scene, which in the end is the best any of us can hope to achieve.

I enjoyed this honest woman’s account of her life and hard work. She had a lot of support throughout her life’s adventures, and still has that support. Makes me wonder how will I aspire to navigate the long arc of the moral universe...

Un livre que toute femme, qui parfois doute de l'ouverture de la société envers la gente féminine, devrait lire cette tranche de vie d'une femme qui a bataillé pour trouver sa voie.