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Ever dreamed of exploring the historic halls of the White House? What about working (or OMG, better yet) living in one of America's most iconic homes?

Spoiler alert: There's so much more to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue than the president. It's time to meet the trailblazing women who've helped make the U.S. what it is today.

From Martha Washington to Eleanor Roosevelt to Michelle Obama, these influential leaders are too often overlooked in our history books—and as you might expect, they do a *lot* more than simply hosting fancy benefits or decorating the East Wing. 

And who better to introduce us to them than Anita and Giovanna McBride (the mother-daughter duo behind First Ladies Make History). We sat down with the pair to talk about their firsthand experiences at the White House (psst...Anita formerly worked for Laura Bush while Giovanna was a v. frequent visitor), plus the importance of learning about our inspiring First Ladies. 

Welcome to The Group Chat, our Bestie Book Club's new interview series with our favorite authors. Dive into more *exclusive* book content right HERE. 🖋️

Girls' Life: What’s the biggest misconception that people have about the role of the First Ladies?

Anita and Giovanna McBride: That they primarily host social events. While hospitality is definitely an important part of their role, First Ladies have used their platform to do so much more, advancing causes that are critical to improving society. They’ve made real changes in areas like health, education and human rights. They take on this unique role with no position description and use their personal experiences and interests in meaningful ways.

GL: What are some examples of these "real changes" that the First Ladies have made in our country?

Anita and Giovanna McBride: Our book shows where First Ladies throughout our history have helped the nation move forward on topics like civil rights—Eleanor Roosevelt and Lady Bird Johnson are great examples of this important work. Nancy Reagan led an initiative called Just Say No, focusing on keeping kids off drugs. Other health and wellness issues include Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move initiative to tackle childhood obesity or Melania Trump’s focus on safe uses of social media in her Be Best campaign. Laura Bush, Barbara Bush and Jill Biden emphasized literacy and education.  

GL: What do you think is the most important quality for a First Lady to have? 

Anita and Giovanna McBride: Compassion. First Ladies throughout our history have taught us that everyone has the capacity to serve others in many different and sometimes quiet ways.  

GL:  Do you have any favorite memories from your time at the White House?

Anita: I had a front row seat to history, having worked in the White House in three administrations. I loved traveling with Mrs. Bush and seeing how meaningful it was for her to go to towns and cities all over the country. People felt so appreciated by their First Lady’s genuine interest in what they were doing. 

Giovanna: Some of my favorite memories were attending the Easter Egg Roll and trick-or-treating in all of the staff offices at Halloween. I also loved watching movies in the White House family theater, going bowling and swimming in the pool. Above all, I have great memories of meeting the many wonderful people who worked there.

GL:  Why is it important for our readers to learn about the First Ladies?

Anita: There is no rule book for First Ladies, but they have played an influential role in our nation’s continually evolving story. Learning their examples can empower us to recognize that leadership comes in many forms, both formal and informal.

GL: If you could have dinner with just one First Lady from history, who would you choose?

Giovanna: I would love to have dinner with First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. I’ve always been inspired by her influence on the preservation of the White House. One of my favorite illustrations in the book is one that depicts Mrs. Kennedy giving a televised tour of the White House, where she highlighted that it belongs to the American people. 

Ready to meet the (totally epic) First Ladies? Check out Anita and Giovanna's new book HERE!

More inspiring GL book content, right this way: 
📚 The secret to achieving your biggest goal (according to Olympic track star, Micha Powell)
📚 Add this teen-founded bookstore to your must-visit list
📚 How to fit reading into your busy schedule

by GL | 12/1/2024