OPENING MY EYES UNDERWATER Essays on Hope, Humanity, and Our Hero Michelle Obama

Author Ashley Woodfolk narrates her inspirational book of essays about bullying, racism, sexuality, and self-confidence. Woodfolk relates her own experiences to the life and words of her hero, former First Lady Michelle Obama. Woodfolk's voice is clear and bright, making this a pleasant listening experience. Her tone when advising young listeners does not come off as preachy; it sounds more like the voice of an older sister giving gentle advice. Woodfolk, who is Black, states that her voice makes her sound like she's white. She addresses the problems her voice has brought her and explains that this type of racial bias, and others like it, are constructs of rules that shouldn't exist. Young listeners will find Woodfolk's and Obama's words valuable in navigating their lives. A.M. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2023]