Melania by Melania.

Synopsis: Testimonies from U.S. First Lady.

Writing Style: Commercial. Polished. Effective and Affecting.

Pacing: Moderate.

Personal Highlights: I loved the ‘author’s note’, though I wasn’t initially sure if I was getting past the following first few short sweet sincere pages. 

Totally surprised me!!! Without the tell all, this memoir has teeth. The missives on human nature… fueled by insecurities and how some can be “so dismissive of those who are different,” is especially effective. “Be grounded in ‘your’ identity.” I really liked that counsel. The PHOTOS, definitively elegant, which make no mistake about it, Melania is absolutely classy. Her stories conclusively sustain the claim. How ‘she operates’, particularly in that one pageant contest, is one of the best examples. She prefers to associate with like-minded serious and straightforward people. Did not miss that message, like her passionate frank discussions with her husband on matters most personally concerning. CHILDREN!!! Oh man, I was so feeling her here.

And there is more…much more. A few faves; Did I read a line of humor? Though I didn’t note it I do remember laughing once. Mostly I was taken by Melania elucidating on incidents such as how social norms and customs vary from country to country (in relation to photos taken of her, perceived out of misunderstood contexts). I learned about some of her other passions, like architecture, and the sophisticated touches she’s added to the White House. All informative. And speaking of material, her mother is “the richest thread in her life”. Meeting Michelle Obama, likewise, a panache memory. And that billboard (…in Manhattan!!!) Man!!! And Whoa!!! I imagined the feeling!) Her romance with Donald (Got that too! I see her.) She explains her choices, decisions, feelings and passions so succinctly. Indeed this testimony is a perfect balance between ‘glitz and grit.’ All around a sophisticated compassionate QUIET must. Highly recommended. Read hardback 2024 copyright.