Michelle Obama is unlike any other First Lady in American History. From her first moments on the public stage, she has challenged traditional American notions about what it means to be beautiful, to be strong, to be fashion conscious, to be healthy, to be First Mum, to be a caretaker and hostess, and to be partner to the most powerful man in the world.

While many books have looked at Michelle Obama from a fashion perspective, no book has fully explored what Michelle Obama means to our culture. The Meaning of Michelle does just that, while offering a parting gift to a landmark moment in American history. This collection presents a chorus of diverse voices with smart, engaging perspectives on Michelle Obama. Contributors include Ava DuVernay, Benilde Little, Damon Young, Alicia Hall Moran and Jason Moran, Brittney Cooper, Ylonda Gault Caviness, Chirlane McCray, Cathi Hanauer, Tiffany Dufu, Tanisha Forde, Marcus Samuelsson, Sarah Lewis, Phillipa Soo, Rebecca Carroll, and Roxane Gay. 'Sixteen writers... share what it's been like to witness Michelle Obama in the White House... Most writers admit that they've been unable to take their eyes off her.' - The New York Times