Here are the personal philosophies, opinions, thoughts, witticisms, and
feelings of such upstanding and quintessential Americans as Abigail
Adams, Dolly Madison, Eleanor Roosevelt, Jacqueline Kennedy, Nancy
Reagan, Barbara Bush, and Hillary Clinton. These women have been more
than just wives of American Presidents. Their roles have included
everything from negotiating with heads of state to redecorating the
White House, from debating political issues to acting as advisors,
confidantes, and diplomats. Through statements made during press
interviews and in speeches and in writing, these women put into words
what might otherwise have remained private: Abigail Adams proves herself
to be a pioneer feminist; Eleanor Roosevelt defines life's ultimate
success; Lady Bird Johnson recounts a soul-enriching boat ride; and much
more. What they have to say about marriage, child-rearing, success,
happiness, beauty in the world, education, careers for women, women in
politics, relationships, growing old, love, and living life to the
fullest is powerful and profound. The pronouncements, pet peeves, gibes,
and joys revealed in America's First Ladies add texture to the more
secretive administrations, and color to the sterner and more stoic ones.