Thanks Obama: My Hopey, Changey White House Years

Thanks Obama: My Hopey, Changey White House Years (David Litt, 2017)

How I stumbled upon it: It was on the shelf as a recommended pick at the library!

What it's about: David Litt was a White House speechwriter (one of the youngest in history!) for President Obama during his first term. He took time away from the White House to work on the 2012 campaign and continued his career with Obama until 2016. His memoir is full of funny stories, political events, and the challenge of being a slightly confused 20-something with a high-profile and impactful job.

What I thought: Y’all know my feelings on political books - I can’t get enough. This was so interesting to me because 1.) It was told by someone who was making a major impact in their twenties while also being new to a career where he was learning by constantly making mistakes and 2.) because I have read almost nothing about speechwriters in the White House. White House residence staff? Read here. Campaign trail? Katy Tur’s book is great. Presidents and their complex relationships with one another? I got y’all. But crafting for the President what he will say when he addresses the nation in times of humor or crisis? Totally interesting + original. Highly recommend.

You can get it here.