White House Historical Ass’n Celebrates New Children’s Book About the First Ladies

Ask a child what the President does and they are likely to have some idea. But ask about the job of the First Lady and… answers come harder. But now a new children’s book is available that shares more about the unique role of the First Lady over the last 200+ years.

Anita McBride and her daughter Giovanna will soon release First Ladies Make History, which takes young readers beyond the topics of hospitality and fashion often associated with women in this role — and this book is about only women married to Presidents thus far, other “First Ladies” and any upcoming “First Gentlemen” will have to be featured in a future edition.

First Ladies Make History highlights contributions these women have made to society throughout American history.

Accomplishments range from literacy, equality, and diplomacy, to environmental conservation and mental health. And while learning about these significant women of impact, whimsical colorful illustrations from artist John Hutton bring history to life.

“Their stories are so important to our history, and their contributions need to be included in the telling of our national story,” Anita McBride explained at the launch reception. “And this is at a level that’s readable for younger generations.”

“I think it’s great that this [First Lady] is a position without a position description — not in the Constitution, not statutorily required that they do any one specific thing,” she added, saying that how each chosen to use their influence “gets rewritten with each occupant.”

“The majority have really seen this opportunity as a way that they can contribute… over the arch of our history.”

First Ladies Makes History is the ninth book in the White House Historical Association’s children’s series published by its independent press. It will be available alongside all of the children’s book series beginning December 3, 2024.