The First Ladies

The New York Times Bestseller Right Away!

The Personal Librarian, a book from the New York Times bestselling writers of the Good Morning America Book Club selection, is about the remarkable relationship that transformed the world between civil rights pioneer Mary McLeod Bethune and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt.

Mary McLeod Bethune, whose parents were formerly slaves, defies attempts by white racists to stop her from doing her job. She continues to work as an activist and an educator, and as her notoriety rises, she is acknowledged by US presidents and corporate giants as a superstar. Even Eleanor Roosevelt is in a state of amazement and is excited to see her. Mary and Eleanor are first brought together by their common support for women's rights and the need of education. Over time, they became close friends, confiding in one another about their goals, ambitions, and tragedies while holding hands through triumphs and tragedies.

The two women start working together more closely once Franklin Delano Roosevelt is elected president. This is especially true as Eleanor pursues her own goals independently of FDR as a result of the heartbreaking revelation of her husband's covert affair. Eleanor's outspokenness, especially when it comes to civil rights, makes her a contentious First Lady. Furthermore, the dangers Elizabeth faces as a result of her close relationship with Mary only strengthen the women's resolve to unite in the pursuit of justice and equality.

This is the tale of two distinct but equally strong, driven, and dedicated women, and how their special bond served as the impetus for the development of the contemporary civil rights movement.