My First Ladies

October 10, 2011
In this light-hearted memoir, retired White House Chief Floral Designer Clarke shares her memories of working for first ladies from Rosalynn Carter to Michelle Obama. For 25 years, Clarke worked with the presidential spouses and their staffs on a daily basis, creating floral arrangements for everything from the president's private quarters, to elaborate state dinners fit for a queen. Clarke writes in glowing terms about all the first ladies, but she also paints an intimate portrait of each. Her success as chief floral designer depended on her being a careful student of their idiosyncratic tastes and temperaments. Readers may also be interested in learning how national events, such as the 2000 election uncertainty, the Clinton impeachment, and the terrifying events of 9/11, were experienced by the behind-the-scenes White House staff. There are no shocking revelations in these pages, but Clarke's memories will entertain those who would like a glimpse inside America's most famous house. 29 color photographs.

July 1, 2011

Chief floral designer at the White House for 25 years, Clarke regales us with stories that place a special emphasis on the First Ladies she knew. Beginning as a floral volunteer during the Carter administration, Clarke worked her way up, getting to know the women of the White House, from Rosalynn Carter through Michelle Obama, along the way. Readers gain insight into the experience of working in the White House, the tremendous planning that goes into events, and Clarke's relationships with the First Families. Overall, her observations are compelling, though details about a First Lady's jewelry or the distance Clarke commutes to work seem like fluffy filler. This memoir is not a tell-all. Though people sometimes seem demanding, no one mentioned in anecdotes, whether a First Family member, another staffer, or a volunteer, ever appears in a negative light, as happens in Roland Mesnier's All the Presidents' Pastries or Connie Mariano's The White House Doctor. VERDICT This is an enjoyable peek behind the scenes for those who can't read enough about our First Families.--Bonnie Poquette, Milwaukee

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