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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I learned a lot about how the White House is run and about the former First Ladies. It was definitely an eye opener in regards to what goes on in the White House.
Interesting view behind the scenes at the White House from WWII until the Ford presidency. Very upbeat and respectful, perhaps too much so.
I enjoyed learning more about the personalities of some of our First Ladies through the respectful eyes of one who worked closely with them.
A new All time favorite!! I could not put this story down! I was touched by the behind the scene stories of our First Ladies and their part in history. This staff member was the usher of the Whitehouse. His stories are amazing. I laughed and I cried when Jackie Kennedy came Back after the assassination -he was such a kind and genuine staff member. …
I just LOVED this book. A very interesting inside look. Told with humor, good sense, and respect. Only wished it could have continued on with the rest of the presidents.
Factual and fun. As a history teacher, I found this an interesting look at the personalities of our recent presidents and their families
I love history and this book about First Ladies was just excellent! I learned about life in the White House.
J B West was Chief Usher for 28 years at the White House. This is the go-to man who keeps the entire grounds, including the building itself and all who live or work there moving swiftly but smoothly along . Need a shower big and powerful enough to please LBJ? Call Mr West. Need to get that same shower out so RMN could tolerate using it? Call Mr …
I was fascinated and entertained by this book from the first page. It’s a respectful and compelling look at behind-the-scenes management and service at the most famous residence in the united States. Personal stories about the author’s interaction with the first ladies and families he served are told with wit, gentility, and even tenderness. …
The book was written more than 20 years ago but I found it really interesting to get insight into the first families of the past and to see how the White House works behind closed doors. The author is a gentleman and focuses on the positive qualities of many people – he was very respectful I thought in his writing. Really interesting if you are …
It was an interesting read.
Interesting prospective of the 1st Ladies. Worth the read.
i enjoyed hearing how the white house runs….
Very well done. It’s always fun to see “behind the scenes” of our First Families and all the dynamics.
If you ever wondered about the private lives of the Presidential families here’s your chance to find out some details. Nothing scandalous but very entertaining reading.
Too many decorating details for my taste but still very interesting to learn more about the people involved.
A delight to read and learn about the Presidents and their families while in White House. Well written-enjoyable read
Well written view into the White House of my childhood era and the First Ladies.
Fascinating insight into life in the White House!
Great book to learn about roles of the first ladies in the White House. Have you a real insight of these first families