We all see the First Families as they go about what they do on TV. Speeches and events, there to celebrate triumphs and stand tall when the world has been shaken to it’s core…
The Residence gives us a peek into what we do not see. Told from the point of views of those who have worked in the White House, maids, cooks, butlers, florists, doormen and more share their stories of what it is like to work for the First Family.
Who makes their own bed in the morning, or insists on monitoring every meal, who watched personal expenses closely, and who frivolously needed fresh flowers in every room daily. What have these people seen through the years of working for the Presidents and their families? What stories will warm your heart and which ones will make you sad or shocked?
I absolutely devoured this book. I listened to it on audio and so enjoyed the narration by Karen White. Karen hit the ball out of the narration park! Beautifully spoken, each story was so interesting. Author Kate Andersen Brower shares the stories of those who spoke to her about their time working in the White House. Everything from the Kennedy Assassination and who stood alongside Jackie Kennedy as she came back home that evening still wearing the blood stained dress to Nixon’s resignation and how the Clinton household functioned during his impeachment. This book is a side to the stories you have never heard before, quite literally an inside scoop.
While one may think this may read like tabloid tell all, it does not. The Residence is a tasteful close up on the First families in good time and in bad. I learned so much while listening to this book. Highly recommended.
- Audible Audio Edition
- Listening Length: 10 hours and 16 minutes
- Program Type: Audiobook
- Version: Unabridged
- Publisher: Harper Audio
- Audible.com Release Date: April 7, 2015
Book Journey 
So glad you enjoyed this, Sheila! I learned a lot about the world behind the scenes at the White House and I am surprised this book hasn’t received more attention so thanks for spreading the word.
I am curious about this one, as I’ve enjoyed bingeing on The West Wing lately…and enjoyed the movie The Butler.
Thanks for sharing…and I love your green background here.
I agree! Loved it. I listened to it during a work trip and couldn’t shut up about it. Perfect dignified look at the White House in the midst of the current election circus.
This sounds like the kind of book I’d love! Haven’t heard much about it, but adding to my audio wish list.
Having enjoyed a film with a similar theme (The Butler, I think) and being fascinated by the whole upstairs/downstairs theme anyway this is definitely one to bear in mind.
So this is nonfiction? I bet my mom would love it.
I love learning about inside, behind the scenes stuff like this. I’m definitely reading this one!
A friend’s daughter is going to be an intern at the White House this spring – she’s reading the book in preparation, but I’m sure she’ll have some great stories when her internship is over!