Author Dawne Allette, a native of Grenada, West Indies, has written a number of children's picture books that are noted for their inspiration, lyricism and humour. She is also the author of Barack Obama: The Making of a President. Dawne has lived in Britain and Iran and now resides in Baltimore, USA. She teaches creative writing and is a literacy programme facilitator for Baltimore Public Schools. She is also a journalist for the Baltimore Times newspaper.

In 2008 American politics saw history made as Barack Hussein Obama became not just the 44th president of the United States--he was the first African-American president of the United States. That is an accomplishment that needs to be noted. In this election we also saw the first African-American first lady in the White House--another accomplishment to note. This book relates the story of the woman behind the man in the White House. It is what my son would call a "chapter book." The author gives the story of not only Michelle Obama, but also her family and background. The book contains photos of the first lady as she grew up and in his career. Boxes called "Fact Files" give sidebar tidbits about this historic first lady. Did you know Michelle's first job at Sidley & Austin was handling the account for Barney the dinosaur? The Fact Files make references that are compared to British equivalents; looking at the front of the book shows the book is of British origin. There is no age range given, but my son in fourth grade had no trouble reading it. -- John L. Hoh, Jr. http://www.bookideas.com/reviews/index.cfm?fuseaction=displayReview&id=6049 20110308