While every political strategist should add this to their reading list, this book is also a must-read for the D.C. political press to look in the mirror at its own problematic coverage that has persisted over centuries. Burns lays out significant and clear arguments as to why studying first ladies and their media relations matter. . . . Overall, Burns has done a masterful job with the editing throughout and wisely notes lessons provided also apply to future first gentlemen. For those who need a cheat sheet, Alison Novak’s conclusion spells out step-by-step what first ladies need to do to master media relations and should be taped to every office door in the East Wing. Excellently primary sourced through the connections of the team, this effective and enjoyable book has a shelf life that will benefit politicos for decades to come.

Journalism History

Notable first lady scholar Lisa M. Burns is back with an impressive collection of essays from leading scholars in Media Relations and the Modern First Lady: From Jacqueline Kennedy to Melania Trump. As the roles of women have changed in society since the 1960s, and media has changed too, the complexity and pace with which the media reports on our first ladies is notable. Why do first lady media relations matter? This book demonstrates the importance of astute media relations and how each woman must navigate her unique time in the spousal spotlight while the whole world is watching.

Nichola D. Gutgold, Penn State University

This comprehensive examination of modern first ladies’ media relations strategies offers both biographical sketches and analyses of the ways in which U.S. presidential spouses have interacted with the press. It is a welcome addition to scholarship on presidential spouses, and underscores how the U.S. presidency is a partnership choreographed for a mediated stage. Media Relations and the Modern First Lady documents the professionalization of the first spouse’s press office, as well as the increasing complexity of political media management in journalistic, televisual, digital, and social media contexts. Students and scholars of the U.S. presidency and presidential spouses, journalism and public relations, and political media management would benefit from reading this book.

Karrin Anderson, Colorado State University