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The Hidden History of the White House
Presented by the hit podcast American History Tellers, The Hidden History of the White House reveals the behind-the-scenes stories of some of the most dramatic events in American history—set right inside the house where it happened
For more than two centuries, the White House in Washington, DC, has been the stage for some of the most climactic moments in American history. Its walls and portraits have witnessed fierce power struggles, history-altering decisions, shocking scandals, and intimate moments among the First Family, their guests, and the staff.
In the signature style of the popular American History Tellers podcast, The Hidden History of the White House places readers in the shoes of historical figures—from power brokers to everyday Americans alike—who lived through pivotal events that shaped America.
As a fly on the wall of history, you’ll find yourself immersed in:
-Andrew Jackson’s disastrous 1829 inauguration, when a mob overran and trashed the White House.
-Woodrow Wilson’s stroke, which led to his wife Edith serving as shadow president during the final months of his administration.
-President-elect Abraham Lincoln’s clandestine journey to Washington to dodge an assassination plot on the eve of the Civil War.
-Winston Churchill’s wartime sojourn at the White House, during which he and FDR developed plans to defeat Germany.
-Barack Obama’s decision to green-light the Navy SEAL raid that killed Osama bin Laden.
Equal parts social, political, and cultural history—written and presented in the accessible and engaging style for which American History Tellers is famous—The Hidden History of the White House offers readers a rare opportunity to live within the halls of the Executive Mansion, and explore some of the extraordinary people and events that made America what it is today.
For more than two centuries, the White House in Washington, DC, has been the stage for some of the most climactic moments in American history. Its walls and portraits have witnessed fierce power struggles, history-altering decisions, shocking scandals, and intimate moments among the First Family, their guests, and the staff.
In the signature style of the popular American History Tellers podcast, The Hidden History of the White House places readers in the shoes of historical figures—from power brokers to everyday Americans alike—who lived through pivotal events that shaped America.
As a fly on the wall of history, you’ll find yourself immersed in:
-Andrew Jackson’s disastrous 1829 inauguration, when a mob overran and trashed the White House.
-Woodrow Wilson’s stroke, which led to his wife Edith serving as shadow president during the final months of his administration.
-President-elect Abraham Lincoln’s clandestine journey to Washington to dodge an assassination plot on the eve of the Civil War.
-Winston Churchill’s wartime sojourn at the White House, during which he and FDR developed plans to defeat Germany.
-Barack Obama’s decision to green-light the Navy SEAL raid that killed Osama bin Laden.
Equal parts social, political, and cultural history—written and presented in the accessible and engaging style for which American History Tellers is famous—The Hidden History of the White House offers readers a rare opportunity to live within the halls of the Executive Mansion, and explore some of the extraordinary people and events that made America what it is today.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published June 4, 2024
99 people are currently reading
3458 people want to read
About the author
Corey Mead
6 books29 followersCorey Mead is an Associate Professor of English at Baruch College, City University of New York. He is the author of Angelic Music: The Story of Benjamin Franklin’s Glass Armonica and War Play: Video Games and the Future of Armed Conflict. His work has appeared in Time, Salon, The Daily Beast, and numerous literary journals.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
June 6, 2024
The sign of a good nonfiction book for me is when I get the urge to share all the facts I learned with my husband. Here are just a few of the interesting tidbits of info I discussed during our evening walks:
- The White House had poor living conditions for many years. Rats scurrying all over the place, and the fear a giant chandelier crashing down on guests. President Harry Truman moved out for awhile during the extensive renovations.
- An indoor pool was installed during FDR’s presidency as it gave him the opportunity to exercise. Pres. Lyndon Johnson liked to swim naked and insisted others do as well.
- The Situation Room came to be because of the Bay of Pigs and lack of good communication.
- A female private detective garnered intel that prevented an assassination attempt on Lincoln in the days before his inauguration.
A fascinating read that covers not just the historic building but the issues presidents faced during their terms.
Thank you William Morrow for sending me a free copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
- The White House had poor living conditions for many years. Rats scurrying all over the place, and the fear a giant chandelier crashing down on guests. President Harry Truman moved out for awhile during the extensive renovations.
- An indoor pool was installed during FDR’s presidency as it gave him the opportunity to exercise. Pres. Lyndon Johnson liked to swim naked and insisted others do as well.
- The Situation Room came to be because of the Bay of Pigs and lack of good communication.
- A female private detective garnered intel that prevented an assassination attempt on Lincoln in the days before his inauguration.
A fascinating read that covers not just the historic building but the issues presidents faced during their terms.
Thank you William Morrow for sending me a free copy! All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
July 16, 2024
Interesting stories, but some were rather tedious
Stories were not in chronological order and seemed a bit disconnected.
Stories were not in chronological order and seemed a bit disconnected.
June 30, 2024
Thanks William Morrow Books for the gifted copy!
I haven’t listened to the American History Tellers podcast, so I wasn’t expecting the “invented or embellished details, such as dialogue” and it took me a bit to adjust to the style. It is noted in the introduction that they do it to bring the moments to life and I understand why they made that choice, but it had me questioning how much of the book was fabricated vs factual. That being said, it’s an easy to read format and I think this style will make it easier for people who don’t typically read nonfiction.
There’s some repetition of info within the chapters - you’d learn that Blair House is the White House’s official guest house and two pages later be told it again. There are also a lot of random and unnecessary descriptions (an architect who loved to dress in ratty clothes and ran around on his blind wife, neither of which has any impact on the story). I’m guessing this was also a style choice in trying to bring the story to life, but for me it felt odd.
In spite of the title, some of the stories are well known, but there were others that were new to me that could fit the ‘Hidden History’ aspect. It’s an entertaining easy read, and even though I prefer a less stylized nonfiction book, I enjoyed it and would recommend it!
I haven’t listened to the American History Tellers podcast, so I wasn’t expecting the “invented or embellished details, such as dialogue” and it took me a bit to adjust to the style. It is noted in the introduction that they do it to bring the moments to life and I understand why they made that choice, but it had me questioning how much of the book was fabricated vs factual. That being said, it’s an easy to read format and I think this style will make it easier for people who don’t typically read nonfiction.
There’s some repetition of info within the chapters - you’d learn that Blair House is the White House’s official guest house and two pages later be told it again. There are also a lot of random and unnecessary descriptions (an architect who loved to dress in ratty clothes and ran around on his blind wife, neither of which has any impact on the story). I’m guessing this was also a style choice in trying to bring the story to life, but for me it felt odd.
In spite of the title, some of the stories are well known, but there were others that were new to me that could fit the ‘Hidden History’ aspect. It’s an entertaining easy read, and even though I prefer a less stylized nonfiction book, I enjoyed it and would recommend it!
September 29, 2024
Decent little stories about moments in white house history, but I'm deducting a star for the Osama Bin Laden chapter not talking about how The Rock was one of the first people to break the news or the John Cena announcement speech.
January 18, 2025
A really enjoyable read filled with a lot of good stories. I especially enjoyed reading the history of the actual building and presidential firsts, such as Teddy Roosevelt being the first president to visit a foreign country.
February 14, 2025
So much history not in schoolbooks. Thoroughly enjoyed this read. Couldn't put it down.
July 27, 2025
Interesting information, but it skipped in time and I would do better if it was chronological. But I did learn.
May 19, 2024
Thank you to William Morrow for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This is a very interesting look at the history of the White House. Among the many interesting topics covered was the building of the White House, its burning in the War of 1812, renovations under President Truman and what was happening in the White House during the Bay of Pigs and the coverage of Lyndon Johnson and civil rights.
Among the top chapters in the book was a discussion of the plot to kill Abraham Lincoln. No, not the successful assassination by Booth or any of the other attempts after he was inaugurated. I mean the alleged plot to kill the President-elect while he was on his way into Washington. But, the book correctly points out that there is still historical debate on exactly how much danger Lincoln really was in.
There is plenty of good material in this book to please any fan of history and of the presidency. It was an extremely enjoyable read.
I give this book an A. Amazon, Goodreads and NetGalley require grades on a 1-5 star system. In my personal conversion system, an A equates to 5 stars. (A or A+: 5 stars, B+: 4 stars, B: 3 stars, C: 2 stars, D or F: 1 star).
April 26, 2024
Thank you, NetGalley and William Morrow for the advanced readers copy. This book was an interesting collection of stories. I was familiar with the story of Barack Obama finding Osama Bin Laden as that occurred during my lifetime and not really that long ago. But it was fascinating to read about some obscure things that occurred in the White House like construction issues and concerns over light fixtures falling on guests. Or reading about a first lady standing in for her husband while he was incapacitated during the final months of his presidency, which I would have thought unheard of. Very interesting read if you are into history or presidents.
July 1, 2024
(Audiobook) A compilation of podcasts associated with the history of the White House and its occupants. However, the compilation was not placed in any logical order (chronological or thematic). Thus, it felt like listening to an extended podcast best of hits. Maybe read in small chunks, like a podcast, is the best for this work. All at once, it doesn’t work as well for the material.
July 13, 2025
Decent book of collection of stories about US presidents. After the first few chapters they aren't really about the whitehouse much.
April 9, 2024
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher William Morrow for an advance copy of this history on the building, and some of the momentous events that have happened in this edifice that even with all the events of the last couple of years, still inspires and reminds people of all the possibilities that America is capable of achieving, if only we tried harder.
If walls could talk the White House would be a bard of stories. From its creation, to the short stay of Adams, to Joe Biden today, this building has seen a lot of history, and even more history has been created inside from the final blasts of a canal, to historic dinners, the planning of civil rights legislature, even the filling in of pools. The Hidden History of the White House: Power Struggles, Scandals, and Defining Moments, by Corey Mead takes a look at a place that seems to get overlooked in presidential histories, the building where the First Family resides, a place that has many names but only a select few have been able to call home.
The book was inspired by a podcast American History Tellers, and is broken into essays that range in time and even places, but under a particular theme. There are three sections, Laying the Foundation, which is about the building of the White House, the design and influence that First President George Washington had and the slaves that helped build the building. There is of course the buring and rebuilding following the War of 1812, and the re-re-building following years of neglect forcing Truman and his family to move else where, which lead to its own adventure. Plus a story about Ford and his pool. The People's House deals with events inside, the inauguration of Andrew Jackson and the controlled riot that was his party. The dinner between Booker T. Washington and Theodore Roosevelt, which sent southern papers into storm of condemnation about a black man eating with a white family. And Halls of Power discussing the Nixon tapes, the meeting of Churchill and Roosevelt during the Second World War.
This book was not at all what I expected and I loved almost every page. There is so much history in here, so many facts. Cory Mead is a very good writer not only able to talk about the history, but he brings the characters so much to life. The presidents of course Lincoln and Johnson really come across well here, but the other characters. Kate Warne who was the first Pinkerton detective, who rose to supervisor of female detectives. Ely S. Parker a great friend to Ulysses Grant, who was a Seneca native, and tried his best to become a part of the American dream, only to be told as he was a Native American, he was not American. Mead has a real way of mixing in stories and reminding us that yes these people might have helped change history, but they were just people. The human factor is ignored quite a bit in history. Mead also goes into the building of the White House by slaves, explaining it clearly and succinctly that yes this did happen.
There is a sense of what America has lost in this book. The same racism, the same stupid arguments, the same hate and ignorance keeps appearing and reappearing. To go from Lincoln, Roosevelt, either one, Johnson for civil rights, not Vietnam, to what we have had is just remarkably sad. However there is always hope. This is a great book to inspire people to live up to some of these ideals.
If walls could talk the White House would be a bard of stories. From its creation, to the short stay of Adams, to Joe Biden today, this building has seen a lot of history, and even more history has been created inside from the final blasts of a canal, to historic dinners, the planning of civil rights legislature, even the filling in of pools. The Hidden History of the White House: Power Struggles, Scandals, and Defining Moments, by Corey Mead takes a look at a place that seems to get overlooked in presidential histories, the building where the First Family resides, a place that has many names but only a select few have been able to call home.
The book was inspired by a podcast American History Tellers, and is broken into essays that range in time and even places, but under a particular theme. There are three sections, Laying the Foundation, which is about the building of the White House, the design and influence that First President George Washington had and the slaves that helped build the building. There is of course the buring and rebuilding following the War of 1812, and the re-re-building following years of neglect forcing Truman and his family to move else where, which lead to its own adventure. Plus a story about Ford and his pool. The People's House deals with events inside, the inauguration of Andrew Jackson and the controlled riot that was his party. The dinner between Booker T. Washington and Theodore Roosevelt, which sent southern papers into storm of condemnation about a black man eating with a white family. And Halls of Power discussing the Nixon tapes, the meeting of Churchill and Roosevelt during the Second World War.
This book was not at all what I expected and I loved almost every page. There is so much history in here, so many facts. Cory Mead is a very good writer not only able to talk about the history, but he brings the characters so much to life. The presidents of course Lincoln and Johnson really come across well here, but the other characters. Kate Warne who was the first Pinkerton detective, who rose to supervisor of female detectives. Ely S. Parker a great friend to Ulysses Grant, who was a Seneca native, and tried his best to become a part of the American dream, only to be told as he was a Native American, he was not American. Mead has a real way of mixing in stories and reminding us that yes these people might have helped change history, but they were just people. The human factor is ignored quite a bit in history. Mead also goes into the building of the White House by slaves, explaining it clearly and succinctly that yes this did happen.
There is a sense of what America has lost in this book. The same racism, the same stupid arguments, the same hate and ignorance keeps appearing and reappearing. To go from Lincoln, Roosevelt, either one, Johnson for civil rights, not Vietnam, to what we have had is just remarkably sad. However there is always hope. This is a great book to inspire people to live up to some of these ideals.
December 30, 2024
Have you ever visited the White House? I have toured it two times in my life and have visited two other times were I only saw it from the outside and was unable to get a tour.
The White House has stood for over two hundred years and has stood as an emblem of the United States. There have been many historic turning points that have occurred in the White House. The Hidden History of the White House lets you explore 15 historic events that changed the White House and/or the world forever.
My thoughts on this book:
• I Found this book to be fascinating. I learned about events I hadn’t known about, and more details about events I already knew about.
• For example, when the White House burned in the War of 1812, James Madison was away with his troops on houseback. Dolly Madison was expecting him back at any time. She had a giant dinner made and had to flee with it served out on the table. The British ate and drank the feast before burning down the White House. James and Dolly Madison were separated and had to look for each other in the countryside. It was a stark picture with our capital burning, the president and first lady lost in the countryside, and the president being denied a stay at a home because the citizen was mad about the situation.
• I also never knew that a piano fell through the floor at the White House! It was interesting reading about the rebuild of the entire inside during the Truman administration.
• There were so many more interesting facts and stories that one should read for themselves.
• This book clued me into the American History Tellers Podcast. I’ve been listening to and enjoying this podcast since reading this book summer.
Overall, The Hidden History of the White House by Corey Mead is a fascinating nonfiction book that immerses the reader into 15 different historic events that helped define the White House and our nation.
Book Source: Review copy from William Morrow. Thank-you #MorrowPartner! Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2024...
The White House has stood for over two hundred years and has stood as an emblem of the United States. There have been many historic turning points that have occurred in the White House. The Hidden History of the White House lets you explore 15 historic events that changed the White House and/or the world forever.
My thoughts on this book:
• I Found this book to be fascinating. I learned about events I hadn’t known about, and more details about events I already knew about.
• For example, when the White House burned in the War of 1812, James Madison was away with his troops on houseback. Dolly Madison was expecting him back at any time. She had a giant dinner made and had to flee with it served out on the table. The British ate and drank the feast before burning down the White House. James and Dolly Madison were separated and had to look for each other in the countryside. It was a stark picture with our capital burning, the president and first lady lost in the countryside, and the president being denied a stay at a home because the citizen was mad about the situation.
• I also never knew that a piano fell through the floor at the White House! It was interesting reading about the rebuild of the entire inside during the Truman administration.
• There were so many more interesting facts and stories that one should read for themselves.
• This book clued me into the American History Tellers Podcast. I’ve been listening to and enjoying this podcast since reading this book summer.
Overall, The Hidden History of the White House by Corey Mead is a fascinating nonfiction book that immerses the reader into 15 different historic events that helped define the White House and our nation.
Book Source: Review copy from William Morrow. Thank-you #MorrowPartner! Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2024...
June 5, 2024
The Hidden History Of The White House, power struggles, scandals an unforgettable moments in American history by Cory Mead this nonfiction book about the White House and the history comes at you for many different directions theres a chapter on Dolly Johnson one of the first black and the most popular cooks of her day, Booker T. Washington‘s dinner with a young Roosevelt and his family Rose Garfield her service and her life long love and so, so much more from Winston Churchill‘s visit to the White House the day of Pearl Harbor the killing of Osama bin Laden there’s just so many different subjects in this book and I think Cory Mead did a great job not only telling tidbits but expounding on that to tell a full story in each chapter. I really enjoyed this book so much it is definitely a five star read by an experienced author in a great storyteller. Throughout the chapters he even discusses the dilapidation of the White House those who try to make it more homely and attractive and just a lot lot more. I could go on and on until I tell you about the whole book but I will not this is a great read and one I definitely recommend to fans of American history, in most cases useless information. But information that is so interesting. I want to thank William Morrow and HarperCollins for my free arc copy via NetGalley. Please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
August 30, 2024
Fabulously full of fascinating information regarding not just the building but the history of some of the people who occupied it. I did not know that there had been an earlier attempt on Lincoln's life; that Teddy Roosevelt was the first sitting president to set foot on foreign soil; that "despite the Navy’s lead role, the mission [to kill bin Laden] was officially a CIA covert operation." I was aware that the British had burned the White House during the War of 1812 which led to the entire interior being rebuilt, but I was not aware that, during the Truman era, it was once again gutted due to rotting floors and a rat infestation. I knew there had been a bowling alley somewhere in there, but not that there was a swimming pool and that Nixon, not a swimmer, had it covered over to become the current Press Room. The smell of chlorine can still be detected. Ford had another pool build outside the White House. There are a few "Spotlights" that focus on people or other aspects pertinent to the White House. Rose Cleveland, for example, was Cleveland's sister and his First Lady until he married later in his presidency. It was not made public, but she was lesbian. The White House did not become the House of the People, until Andrew Jackson's administration. I recommend this for anyone interested in "perhaps the world’s most famous building, a living museum of American history."
February 19, 2024
The Hidden History of the White House: Power Struggles, Scandals, and Defining Moments by Corey Mead is a great red that I truly enjoyed.
This is quite the collection of stories telling some of the many fascinating people, events, and scenes that took place in and surrounding our nation’s most famous residence. I loved how each narrative placed the reader right into the mix so one could really feel as if they were there and part of the action.
There are three sections of the book where the stories are grouped into common themes:
Part 1: Laying the Foundation
Part 2: The People’s House
Part 3: Halls of Power
I won’t spoil anything for the readers, as they should be able to truly enjoy the book as I did. If you love American history, then this is for you.
4.5/5 stars
Thank you EW and William Morrow for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 6/4/24.
This is quite the collection of stories telling some of the many fascinating people, events, and scenes that took place in and surrounding our nation’s most famous residence. I loved how each narrative placed the reader right into the mix so one could really feel as if they were there and part of the action.
There are three sections of the book where the stories are grouped into common themes:
Part 1: Laying the Foundation
Part 2: The People’s House
Part 3: Halls of Power
I won’t spoil anything for the readers, as they should be able to truly enjoy the book as I did. If you love American history, then this is for you.
4.5/5 stars
Thank you EW and William Morrow for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 6/4/24.
Read
August 1, 2024Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of
The History of the White House.
You know the saying...'if these walls could talk...'
If any building has juicy stories to tell, it'd be the White House, the grand symbol and epitome of American democracy.
I'm a fan of American history so I was excited my request was approved.
The book is divided into three sections and reveals behind-the-scene stories of some of the most dramatic events in American history like the Bay of Pigs, the building of the Panama Canal, Teddy Roosevelt's dinner with Booker T. Washington, and the decline of President Woodrow Wilson's health. That was a very sad story.
The writing flows and its obvious the author did his research.
I wonder what stories the author had to leave out because he ran out of room!
I appreciate the photos because visuals add to a story; it never hurts to put a face to the name.
This was a fascinating, intriguing read fans of American history and/or politics would enjoy.
You know the saying...'if these walls could talk...'
If any building has juicy stories to tell, it'd be the White House, the grand symbol and epitome of American democracy.
I'm a fan of American history so I was excited my request was approved.
The book is divided into three sections and reveals behind-the-scene stories of some of the most dramatic events in American history like the Bay of Pigs, the building of the Panama Canal, Teddy Roosevelt's dinner with Booker T. Washington, and the decline of President Woodrow Wilson's health. That was a very sad story.
The writing flows and its obvious the author did his research.
I wonder what stories the author had to leave out because he ran out of room!
I appreciate the photos because visuals add to a story; it never hurts to put a face to the name.
This was a fascinating, intriguing read fans of American history and/or politics would enjoy.
March 12, 2025
interesting and Easy to Read
A nice selection of short, informative and readable histories. The book covers a wide spectrum of topics. From the destruction of the White House by the British in 1912 to its reconstruction in 1814 and the major repair by Truman in 1947. But not all the stories take place within the building walls. Chapter 11, “The Panama Canal” stayed mostly in Panama. The digging of the canal was done under 3 presidents: Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft and Woodrow Wilson. Its completion on August 15, 1914 corresponded to the start of World War 1 on August 1, 1914. It was not only a great accomplishment for President Wilson, but a irreplaceable asset to our county during the war. The book covers a wide spectrum of topics. You not only meet Histories Great’s, but also the every day staff of the White House its self.
A nice selection of short, informative and readable histories. The book covers a wide spectrum of topics. From the destruction of the White House by the British in 1912 to its reconstruction in 1814 and the major repair by Truman in 1947. But not all the stories take place within the building walls. Chapter 11, “The Panama Canal” stayed mostly in Panama. The digging of the canal was done under 3 presidents: Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft and Woodrow Wilson. Its completion on August 15, 1914 corresponded to the start of World War 1 on August 1, 1914. It was not only a great accomplishment for President Wilson, but a irreplaceable asset to our county during the war. The book covers a wide spectrum of topics. You not only meet Histories Great’s, but also the every day staff of the White House its self.
July 13, 2025
I gave 3.5/5 ⭐️
I would like to extend my gratitude to #goodreadsgiveaway #coreymead in providing me with a copy of this book. Although this genre is not typically my area of interest, I decided to give it a try. I found the content to be quite fascinating. The title suggests a more dramatic tone, but the author successfully presents the information in an unbiased manner. It was intriguing to learn about the construction of the first White House and the subsequent events leading up to Obama's presidency. While the title implies scandalous content, it is not as sensational as one might expect. However, what resonated with me is the realization that our current president is repeating mistakes made by past presidents, resulting in a weaker nation. This observation serves as a poignant reminder that we can, and have, done.
I would like to extend my gratitude to #goodreadsgiveaway #coreymead in providing me with a copy of this book. Although this genre is not typically my area of interest, I decided to give it a try. I found the content to be quite fascinating. The title suggests a more dramatic tone, but the author successfully presents the information in an unbiased manner. It was intriguing to learn about the construction of the first White House and the subsequent events leading up to Obama's presidency. While the title implies scandalous content, it is not as sensational as one might expect. However, what resonated with me is the realization that our current president is repeating mistakes made by past presidents, resulting in a weaker nation. This observation serves as a poignant reminder that we can, and have, done.
May 13, 2024
Many thanks to Netgalley and William Morrow for an advanced reader's copy of The Hidden History of the White House by Corey Mead. This book is inspired by a podcast, American History Tellers, which I am now interested in listening to. The Hidden Histroy of the White House is a collection of essays separated into three parts. While, most of the stories focused on a single event in history, some stories were quieter and focused more on a president. There were some interesting little known stories shared. I read this book as a slow and steady read, reading only one chapter a day. I thought the author began and finished the book with essays perfectly suited for the beginning and end of this particular book. This is the first book I have read by Corey Mead, and I am ready to get another in my hands. I think this book will make a good book to gift to others as well.
June 27, 2024
If you like the American History Tellers podcast, you’d like this book. It’s written in the same format. Idk how “hidden” these stories are though. Anyone who loves American history and all the books and podcasts that come from it, you’ve probably heard at least 80% (if not all) of the stories in this books. Regardless, it was still a fun read and there’s only a finite number of stories to tell when talking American history. I also like the addition of photos throughout the book. As someone who is constantly googling images while learning history, the photos helped.
TLDR; if you are a history buff who wants new stories, this ain’t it. If you just appreciate history and love re-hearing it or just starting out on a history journey, it’s perfect.
TLDR; if you are a history buff who wants new stories, this ain’t it. If you just appreciate history and love re-hearing it or just starting out on a history journey, it’s perfect.
January 26, 2025
Corey Mead presents interesting stories throughout the White House’s storied history.
You gain insight into the original building plans, Dolly Madison and the British burning it down during the war of 1812, Andrew Jackson’s infamous inaugural party, Lincoln “sneaking in” in the middle of the night to avoid being assassinated, Roosevelt and Washington’s controversial dinner, Churchill’s visits with FDR during WWII, renovations during the Truman years, Obama’s use during the raid on Osama Bin Laden, and more.
4/5 because I don’t enjoy when authors use historical reimagining to add to the story telling, but get the concept in certain points of the book.
Overall a good book to learn notable facts about the WH and the individuals who have called it home.
You gain insight into the original building plans, Dolly Madison and the British burning it down during the war of 1812, Andrew Jackson’s infamous inaugural party, Lincoln “sneaking in” in the middle of the night to avoid being assassinated, Roosevelt and Washington’s controversial dinner, Churchill’s visits with FDR during WWII, renovations during the Truman years, Obama’s use during the raid on Osama Bin Laden, and more.
4/5 because I don’t enjoy when authors use historical reimagining to add to the story telling, but get the concept in certain points of the book.
Overall a good book to learn notable facts about the WH and the individuals who have called it home.
July 10, 2024
What a fabulous read! Mead has a marvelous story telling voice and the way he describes the events in the book -- even though they happened 250 years ago give or take -- you feel like you are in the room with the various people. I was struck by some of the post-civil war events....pre-1900 ones -- how we haven't come all that far. I have to admit the chapter that was a white knuckle page turner for me, even though I clearly remember that day, was when Obama oversaw bringing bin Laden to justice. I was also drawn to the stories of the first ladies who did more, so much more, than general history has told us. We have some amazing women in our history.
January 27, 2025
This is a fun, informal read about hidden gems in the White House, the circumstances and challenges of its construction, destruction, rebuilding and rebuilding again. It's also about the colorful residents and the events witnessed there from the Oval Office to the Situation Room. The book opens with the 1814 burning of the White House then called the Executive Mansion and continues through the secret tapes of the Nixon Era, concluding with the simulcast Abbottabad killing of Osama bin Laden. I recommend this book for history lovers and those who appreciate being witness to secrets.
September 28, 2024
I found this book to be very interesting. I am a bit surprised as to how much I actually liked it. It was very easy to read and held my attention. I have not always been big on history, but I enjoyed reading about the hidden history of the White House. I liked that each chapter was just enough information without getting boring.
Thank you, Corey Mead for writing such an interesting book, and thank you, William Morrow and Net Galley for the opportunity for me to read it.
Thank you, Corey Mead for writing such an interesting book, and thank you, William Morrow and Net Galley for the opportunity for me to read it.
November 13, 2025
4.5⭐️
I found this book to be very interesting. I learned quite a bit. I never knew Nixon installed the recording device in the oval office that ended up causing him to resign. The break in was planned by him to use against his enemies. There is so much info in this book. I recommend it to any that likes history.
#LibbyApp #carlislepubliclibrary #lonokecountylibrarysystem #CoreyMead #TheHiddenHistoryoftheWhiteHouse
I found this book to be very interesting. I learned quite a bit. I never knew Nixon installed the recording device in the oval office that ended up causing him to resign. The break in was planned by him to use against his enemies. There is so much info in this book. I recommend it to any that likes history.
#LibbyApp #carlislepubliclibrary #lonokecountylibrarysystem #CoreyMead #TheHiddenHistoryoftheWhiteHouse
January 19, 2026
many of these stories are ones that I jad knowledge of going into this book. But, being a fan of tge American History Tellers podcast, I was excited to read it. while going through the book, it didnt feel like I was relearning something I already knew, it flowed very well and added more depth of knowledge to certain events. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone fascinated by stories and scandals of things that happened in the white house or during certain administrations.
June 1, 2024
Inside the iconic White House, history unfolds and legends are born. Well-researched and easy-to-read, this enjoyable book takes the reader on an immersive journey through the halls of power, revealing the pivotal moments, scandalous secrets, and intimate stories that have shaped America.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
June 9, 2024
I loved this book! It's a collection of well-written and engaging stories, offering us an insider's view of some of the most significant events in White House and American presidential history, many of which will be new to most readers. The twist—and author Corey Mead's special skill—is to bring readers inside the events via his detailed and vivid storytelling.
August 12, 2024
This book has many secrets and goes into the struggles and scandals that other books I have read don't cover. For instance the 1812 when the British came to the White House and the things they did. There are many stories about the history of the White House and the people who were in it. i found some of the stories hard to believe.
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