Book description
She took on titans, battled generals, and changed the world as we know it…
New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Dray returns with a captivating and dramatic new novel about an American heroine Frances Perkins.
Raised on tales of her revolutionary ancestors, Frances Perkins arrives in New York City at…
Why read it?
3 authors picked Becoming Madam Secretary as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?
My book group chose this book, and I procrastinated. I read a lot, but 500 pages in four days? And historical fiction can go either way with me. Plus, there have been sooo many books lately about WWII. But. Book club. Okay. All it took was the prologue to draw me in, and I read it in two days. It's not about the war after all, it's about Frances Perkins -- why is she not a household name? The most astonishing part: it is so relevant to this moment in history, which didn't even begin until after it was written.
"Becoming Madam Secretary" combines historical accuracy with a poignant exploration of the personal and political life of the first woman to hold a Cabinet position, Frances Perkins, Labor Secretary appointed by FDR. A must-read for those who appreciate a captivating blend of history and personal narrative, "Becoming Madam Secretary" stands as a fitting tribute to a woman who left an indelible mark on the course of American history.
In this book, I admired author Stephanie Dray's ability to portray Frances Perkins, the first female US cabinet member, as a multifaceted woman who defied societal expectations driven by her determination and intellect to set her apart in a political world dominated by men.
My respect for Perkins grew as Dray revealed the complexities Perkins faced in balancing her public career with the responsibilities of marriage and motherhood. I felt connected to this aspect of Perkins' life; understanding her personal struggles made her an even more relatable character and her accomplishments even more remarkable.
Beyond the personal narrative, I discovered…
From Janis' list on historical fiction women who smashed glass ceilings.
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