Mosinee: Book Club: “The First Ladies” by Marie Benedict & Victoria Christopher Murray

Join our Mosinee staff and other book lovers for engaging discussions of a variety of books each month! Discuss “The First Ladies” by Marie Benedict & Victoria Christopher Murray for our November book club.

A novel about the extraordinary partnership between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune—an unlikely friendship that changed the world. The daughter of formerly enslaved parents, Mary McLeod Bethune refuses to back down as white supremacists attempt to thwart her work. She marches on as an activist and an educator, and as her reputation grows she becomes a celebrity, revered by titans of business and recognized by U.S. Presidents. Eleanor Roosevelt herself is awestruck and eager to make her acquaintance. Initially drawn together because of their shared belief in women’s rights and the power of education, Mary and Eleanor become fast friends confiding their secrets, hopes and dreams-and holding each other’s hands through personal and professional strife.

When Franklin Roosevelt is elected president, the two women begin to collaborate more closely, particularly as Eleanor moves toward her own agenda separate from FDR. Eleanor becomes a controversial First Lady for her outspokenness, particularly on civil rights. And when she receives threats because of her strong ties to Mary, it only fuels the women’s desire to fight together for justice and equality.

Everyone is welcome to join the discussion! For more information, call 715-693-2144.