Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray

Erin
May 16, 2024
2 min read

Updated: Jun 14, 2024

5/5 Stars

If you are a fan of historical fiction, particularly that of strong, courageous, bold women, Becoming Madam Secretary is a novel you should pick up. Stephanie Dray explores the fascinating life of Frances Perkins, the first woman to serve as a U.S. Cabinet member under President Franklin D. Roosevelt when he appointed her Secretary of Labor. She was a trailblazer, a force to be reckoned with, and the fascinating protagonist of this phenomenal historical fiction novel. I did not know who Frances Perkins was before choosing to read Stephanie Dray’s newest book, but now I am so glad that I do.

I am eternally grateful for the strong women who have come before me blazing the trail for us and bettering humankind, and Frances Perkins is no exception. Her story is riveting, captivating, and so important to remember as the lasting impact of her achievements as Secretary of Labor has bettered the lives of all Americans. Frances Perkins advocated for labor rights and social reform in an America that did not value women or their opinions. She championed change before she was even allowed to cast a vote. And she would not be silenced.

Stephanie Dray’s meticulous research shines through the pages of this novel weaving Frances Perkins’ past and present seamlessly with historical facts of the time. We learn of how she balanced personal struggles and political pressures with grace, humility, and strength. She challenged the status quo winning over the trust and support of FDR who, upon election to the presidential office, appointed her Secretary of Labor. She worked through the Great Depression. She championed the New Deal. She advocated for workers’ rights and against child labor. And she did all this while she was a mother and wife to a husband with mental illness. She was an incredible woman, and I feel you will grow to love her through the pages of this book.

Frances Perkins is an inspiring woman from American history. May her impact always be remembered, and her legacy live on.

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