Janny Scott Knihy

The New York Times bestseller-an unprecedented look into the life and character of the woman who raised a president. Barack Obama has written extensively about his father but credited his mother for "what is best in me." Still, little is known about this fiercely independent, spirited woman who raised the man who became the first biracial president of the United States. This book is that story. In A Singular Woman, award-winning New York Times reporter Janny Scott tells the story of this unique woman, Stanley Ann Dunham, who broke many of the rules of her time, and shows how her fierce example helped influence the future president-and can serve as an inspiration to us all.

A major publishing event offers an unprecedented look into the life of the woman who profoundly influenced Barack Obama—his mother, Stanley Ann Dunham. While Obama has written extensively about his father, little is known about Dunham, the fiercely independent woman who raised him and is credited for "what is best in me." Award-winning reporter Janny Scott interviewed nearly two hundred of Dunham's friends, colleagues, and family members, including her children, and examined personal papers, letters, and photo albums to reveal the inspiring and unconventional life she led. Dunham's journey spans from Kansas and Washington state to Hawaii and Indonesia, beginning in an era when interracial marriage was often illegal and culminating with her son's presidency—an achievement she never witnessed. This poignant narrative explores how character is inherited from parent to child, shedding light on how Obama's destiny was shaped by his mother's unwavering belief in his potential and her unique approach to parenting. Ultimately, it is a heartbreaking account of a woman who passed away at fifty-two, before her son achieved his greatest milestones, reflecting on the invaluable lessons she imparted to him.