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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Very interesting to hear about the private lives of the first ladies from long tenured employees….
Very enlightening read about the reality of living in the White House . . . the human side apart from the publicized glamour and political spin.
I loved J.B. West’s first person account of life in the White House, and the Head Usher’s relationships with First Ladies from Eleanor Roosevelt to Pat Nixon. So much of this was eye-opening. I appreciated that Mr. West spoke respectfully of all these First Ladies, although you could discern who he liked more and less. A wonderful glimpse into …
I loved it! Those ladies were in the White House when I was growing up and into adulthood. It was so interesting reading about those ladies and what they were like, they became real people not someone you just heard about on the news.
The author worked as a butler at the White House from the time of FDR through the Nixons; he left when Nixon came into the office. The historical perspective was very interesting as well as how he and the others reacted to such historical events as the Bay of Pigs and JFK’s assassination. I really enjoyed this book; the author didn’t seem to have …
J. B. West gives a transparent look into his time at the White House. His account is informative and honest while being respectful. I felt as though I got to know the First Families personally. It was a fun read, and I felt the personalities just jump off the page through his accounts of events. Understanding more about the personal lives and …
This was a fun read. I enjoyed hearing about the white house happenings from someone who actually worked with the first ladies. Good book.
Absolutely fascination information about First Ladies who live in the White House starting with Eleanor Roosevelt through to Pat Nixon when Mr. West retired. I recommend it very highly.
Realistic view of the staff and residents of the White House as well as the humor and stamina you must have to work there. It also shows an delightful “first of the person view” of the various residents personalities.
A folksy look at life in the White House from FDR to Richard Nixon. Interesting descriptions of the presidents and their families.
I’ve told all of my friends to get this book! Historical, informative, and even humorous at time! I loved this book!
I have recommended this to everyone who will listen. It was filed with charming facts and stories of our first ladies that have never been share.
Very interesting and entertaining. The chief White House usher takes the high road…no hint of presidential rumors or scandals. Intimate look at the lives of first families in the White House, including redecorating priorities, favorite foods, and personalities. Well worth reading for the historical perspective.
Wonderful insights into how the WH is run and the influence of the First Ladies as well as the wonderful service provided by a staff whose loyalty is, correctly, to the White House.
Learned some things I never knew before about how the occupants of the White House live and the role the First Lady plays. Very Interesting.
This book is so well written. It is very imformative and gives you a very personal look at the presidents and their wives.
What a glimpse into the world of the White House.
First, I have to say this isn’t a political book. It’s got the words White House in it and First Lady, but honestly, it’s not a political book. It’s about the women who ruled the White House, no politics involved. I have to also admit right off that it’s the end of FDR’s presidency through the …
A fascinating look at life behind the White House doors! I enjoyed getting an inside glimpse of former Presidents and First Ladies….
Liked it. Learned a lot! Good for a book club read.
Excellent history of modern first families