In this New York Times bestseller, the White House chief usher for nearly three decades offers a behind-the-scenes look at America’s first families. J. B. West, chief usher of the White House, directed the operations and maintenance of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue—and coordinated its daily life—at the request of the president and his family. He directed state functions; planned parties, weddings and … parties, weddings and funerals, gardens and playgrounds, and extensive renovations; and, with a large staff, supervised every activity in the presidential home. For twenty-eight years, first as assistant to the chief usher, then as chief usher, he witnessed national crises and triumphs, and interacted daily with six consecutive presidents and first ladies, as well as their parents, children and grandchildren, and houseguests—including friends, relatives, and heads of state.
J. B. West, whom Jackie Kennedy called “one of the most extraordinary men I have ever met,” provides an absorbing, one-of-a-kind history of life among the first ladies. Alive with anecdotes ranging from Eleanor Roosevelt’s fascinating political strategies to Jackie Kennedy’s tragic loss and the personal struggles of Pat Nixon, Upstairs at the White House is a rich account of a slice of American history that usually remains behind closed doors.
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While not a page-turner, this highly personal and informative about years and years of various presidents and their first ladies. I enjoyed reading it.
Great insights into first wives’ personality
Fascinating! Author does a wonderful job telling what the first families ( particularly the first ladies) were really like.
The information in the book is interesting. The style is not wonderful, but I enjoyed it.
I read about half of it. It was interesting, mostly, though not compelling.
Loved the entire book
A wonderful insight into the first families from the inside.
A look into the private workings of the White House through the eyes of a man who lived it.
Loved the history n behind the scenes info!
Very good book about the internal workings of the White House.
Great insights to the behind the scenes workings of the White House. Must admit that I got a bit annoyed with how much money is spent “redecorating” the White House each new President. They are not the owners. The tax payers are.
great account of US history
This was a great read about the White House and it’s guests!!!!
Informative, very well written.
An enjoyable look at the past first ladies and presidents.