She left things up to the housekeeper [and] . Unlike a biography on the same subject, this was a more intimate look told by an eyewitness with an active part in White House life. Unable to add item to List. West gives a delightful history lesson from behind the scenes. It was fun and interesting to learn about the human side of some of our presidents and their families. Pay is never consistent with private industry. This is an immensely enjoyable and informative book, and one which deserves a new readership after its initial popularity and its long stay on the New York Times bestseller list. Mami Eisenhower's velvet gloves fifties style housewife, contrasts Jackie Kennedy's upper crust finishing school style that brought a new elegance to the White House. It is both a powerful and a delicate position that calls for the ability to communicate with politicians, officials, servants and First Families of widely divergent character. Many historical figures are ones we just see in short news clips or are referenced in conversations. For history buffs this will be heaven. But these weren't the only reasons the book made me quite nostalgic. During the noontime lull, while the luncheon guests chattered away, and between every visitor, Mr. Crim quietly instructed the staff—head butler and his men, housekeeper Henrietta Nesbitt, doormen, gardeners, engineers, plumbers, carpenters, electricians, painters, drivers—in their duties for the day. B. I really loved how Mr. West had such unique comments to sum up each First Lady - they're always admiring but specific, showing how different people with opposite personality traits can be effective and excellent BECAUSE of their opposing personalities. We now live in an age where everyone seems determined to undermine each other and treat opponents as sub-human. The shift in social status and the way things are done, as the Roosevelt's upper crust lifestyle exits, compared to the bread and butter of Harry Truman's middle America. . Like all government agencies there is never enough money, pointless rules to follow (all White House china damaged must be smashed and tossed off Hayne’s Point), and daily the staff must perform miracles in as inefficient manner as possible. Reviewed in the United Kingdom on February 25, 2020. It was interesting to learn about the different personalities of the First Ladies. Rereading it now, however, I find it to be very superficial.
Goodreads helps you keep track of books you want to read. Search for "Backstairs at the White House" on Amazon.com, Title: I have a budget of $152,000 a year, a staff of 62, and a free hand to furnish and direct the mansion as I see fit." West traces the lives of each of the six First Families he served. didn’t have much time for housekeeping problems either, and the mansion suffered because of it. Really!!
Fortunately, I'm not alone; J.B. West is my kind of guy. he was very good at describing each first lady.Mrs.Roosevelt was described as "always on the go and very busy" back then she thought nothing of walking by herself around Washington D.C. or driving herself when she wanted to go somewhere much to the protests of. It's a refreshingly balanced, honest account of the First Ladies, sharing both their good and bad points without judgment. View production, box office, & company info. it seemed dingy, almost seedy.
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