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Exploring the White House: Inside America's Most Famous Home
#1 New York Times bestselling author Kate Andersen Brower shares a special inside look into the most famous home in America—and the lives of hardworking staff members and first ladies who’ve maintained it.
Have you ever wondered what exactly goes on inside 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue? Sure, the president of the United States works and resides there, but do you know who helps keep this historic house running?
It’s no simple task, especially when there are important state events and foreign dignitaries—in addition to presidential pups, mischievous children, and even a couple of ghosts. And its Residence workers and first ladies make sure everything is in check and running smoothly.
Featuring fascinating photos, fun facts, and memorable quotes from the residents and first ladies of the White House, Exploring the White Inside America's Most Famous Home is the perfect read for any curious kid!
Have you ever wondered what exactly goes on inside 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue? Sure, the president of the United States works and resides there, but do you know who helps keep this historic house running?
It’s no simple task, especially when there are important state events and foreign dignitaries—in addition to presidential pups, mischievous children, and even a couple of ghosts. And its Residence workers and first ladies make sure everything is in check and running smoothly.
Featuring fascinating photos, fun facts, and memorable quotes from the residents and first ladies of the White House, Exploring the White Inside America's Most Famous Home is the perfect read for any curious kid!
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 8, 2020
84 people are currently reading
3662 people want to read
About the author
Kate Andersen Brower
15 books536 followersKate Andersen Brower is the author of the #1 New York Times bestseller THE RESIDENCE and the New York Times bestseller FIRST WOMEN, as well as FIRST IN LINE, TEAM OF FIVE, and the children’s book EXPLORING THE WHITE HOUSE. She is a CNN contributor and she has written for the New York Times, the Washington Post, Vanity Fair and Time. She spent four years covering the Obama White House for Bloomberg News and is a former CBS News staffer and Fox News producer. She lives outside Washington, D.C, with her husband, their three young children, and their wheaten terrier named Chance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
September 1, 2022
Wow! What an interesting book about the most famous house in America! I learned many facts about First Families and the people who work for them that I had never read before. For example, what very famous person was not allowed to be present at the March On Washington in 1963? (Chap.4). Which First Kid was such a bookworm that she read during White House functions? (Chap. 9) Which First Lady pleadingly asked for mocha cake when under stress, a request that the White House chef gladly and frequently fulfilled? (Chap. 7)
I highly recommend this book for all history classrooms, middle-grade and up. I’m giving a copy to my son who just got hired as a middle-school history teacher; I think students would love this one!
I highly recommend this book for all history classrooms, middle-grade and up. I’m giving a copy to my son who just got hired as a middle-school history teacher; I think students would love this one!
March 15, 2021
In the current and often contentious political climate, the White House stands as a memorial to our enduring democracy. This book provides kids (and adults like me who love to read juvenile nonfiction) a comprehensive look at the history and geography of the White House as well as interesting anecdotes. Brower reminds us multiple times (too much for my taste) that the White House staff -- those who keep the residence running at tip top shape -- are nonpartisan and build positive relationships with each of the presidential families. It is obvious that Brower spent extensive time doing research and conducting interviews in preparation for writing this book. I learned a lot and would recommend it to anyone who wants to know more about this iconic home.
I want to thank the men and women who devote their lives to preserving the beauty and history of the White House. They are the heroes of this story and I am grateful that dozens of them took the time to talk to me about their incredible experiences. - Kate Anderson Bower (Acknowlegments)
I want to thank the men and women who devote their lives to preserving the beauty and history of the White House. They are the heroes of this story and I am grateful that dozens of them took the time to talk to me about their incredible experiences. - Kate Anderson Bower (Acknowlegments)
January 19, 2021
Loved this book. Adding it to my list of AWESOME 2021 books.
https://www.mrcolbysharp.com/2021
https://www.mrcolbysharp.com/2021
February 7, 2021
A fascinating read that gives you the inside scoop on life in The White House. I learned so much about history and gained such a respect for the hard-working staff that tirelessly keep the House running.
January 21, 2025
Very easy read. Cool facts.
August 16, 2023
4.5⭐️✨🌟
February 25, 2021
This book was really fun to read. It had lots of facts and "did you knows" and I also liked that it had lots of pictures. It was fun reading a nonfiction book for a change.
December 7, 2020
Having read Brower's The Residence, this wasn't filled with new information (though there are inclusions from the Trump administration since that publication). That said, that's okay! This is more geared toward a middle grade or young adult audience. It reads as narrative nonfiction and is filled with information about the White House itself and the people who have lived there. It is carefully non-partisan and is much more about those involved in the residence that is the White House as people than it is about anything political.
LBJ does come out of this looking like a demanding jerk, particularly when compared to stories about others who lived in the White House, though that isn't political.
The behind-the-scenes running-of-the-house information is my personal favorite and is exactly the kind of stuff I would have been interested in when I was part of the target audience for this title. Details about grocery shopping and flowers and who takes care of the dogs are really fun.
This is a good addition to a middle grade library, particularly one interested in including social studies titles.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for review.
LBJ does come out of this looking like a demanding jerk, particularly when compared to stories about others who lived in the White House, though that isn't political.
The behind-the-scenes running-of-the-house information is my personal favorite and is exactly the kind of stuff I would have been interested in when I was part of the target audience for this title. Details about grocery shopping and flowers and who takes care of the dogs are really fun.
This is a good addition to a middle grade library, particularly one interested in including social studies titles.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for review.
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August 18, 2020Due to be published this Fall/election year, this fun and informative book would be perfect for young history buffs. Middle readers will learn the history of the White House through the lens of the people who lived and worked there over the years. Readers will learn as much about the spouses and children of the presidents as about the men (so far) themselves. The best stories, and they aren't gossipy at all, come from the hundreds of interviews Brower had with current and former White House staff - many of whom worked there for decades. They are amazingly non-partisan in their approach to the job and are dedicated to the families and the institution they serve. Kids, and adults, will enjoy this exploration - and it will likely spur some kids on to reading some biographies of some American presidents.
January 11, 2023
This book is filled with great information.
It is perfect for a young reader who wants to know more about The White House, Past and Present Presidents of the US, and most importantly, Butlers, Maid, Chefs, etc and all who keep The White House running smoothly.
However, I will say, even though this book is intended for a more juvenile audience, there were way too many explanation points. The information can stand on its own, no need for the extra emphasis.
Overall, a good, quick read.
It is perfect for a young reader who wants to know more about The White House, Past and Present Presidents of the US, and most importantly, Butlers, Maid, Chefs, etc and all who keep The White House running smoothly.
However, I will say, even though this book is intended for a more juvenile audience, there were way too many explanation points. The information can stand on its own, no need for the extra emphasis.
Overall, a good, quick read.
February 2, 2021
A really fun "behind the scenes" look at what goes on in the White House. All the things kids want to know. Do the children in the White House have to make their own beds? What kinds of pets have lived there? What does the First Family eat and who does the cooking? All kinds of questions answered!
January 15, 2021
Great book about what goes on inside the white house!
January 23, 2021
It’s a fascinating read and humanizes living at the White House through its faithful staff.
February 7, 2021
I learned so many interesting things about the White House! Such a great book!
July 21, 2023
This was short and sweet. Super informative and in a fun format. Probably had the most recent information of the books I’ve read about the White House, as it goes through the Trump admin.
September 7, 2020
I requested a review copy of this book from NetGalley because I have a child very interested in presidents. He at one time knew all of them in order of serving, and owns most every book for children written about them. This book will be one to add to his shelf. It's full of interesting facts beyond the normal dates and wives. I would love to give this to him before we take a trip to visit Washington D.C. in the coming years. This book is wonderful for those readers who enjoy more facts based vs novel based reading. Fun Fact and Did You Know headings for each chapter which is another "love language" for my reader - he will spit these facts back to anyone listening! Only thing I wish was different was including color photos when able, as the proof copy was B&W or missing the images.
August 12, 2020
Although non-fiction, this reads like a story. There are plenty of fun facts, interesting photographs, and trivia interspersed throughout the text. The writing style will keep students engaged and interested. There are brief glimpses into the everyday life of the presidents and their families that make reading about them more personal. The subtitles within the chapters make the book easy to put down and pick up - which will make it accessible to even the most reluctant readers.
DRC from Edelweiss and Quill Tree books
DRC from Edelweiss and Quill Tree books
August 15, 2020
I got this as an ARC from Harper Collins. I loved it! I can’t wait to share the information with my nieces and nephews. It almost made me want to run for president, just so I can live in the White House with all of these wonderful people and all of the history.
February 22, 2024
I read this book for the February meeting of one of my book clubs, where the theme was US Presidents, First Ladies, and/or the White House. I found the perfect book to learn more about the White House, written by a reporter and TV producer who traveled with the Obama family and wrote about it for Bloomberg News.
This 2020 book is a quick and engrossing read, covering topics including the building's history since John Adams and his family first lived there in 1800 and how it is laid out, and what it's like to work, grow up, dine, celebrate holidays, have pets, and even see ghosts in this 55,000-square foot building. The author also writes about many of the First Ladies and how they made the White House work for their families' needs and tastes, and about the ever-present Secret Service.
I relished all of the fun facts I learned and anecdotes I read about, which humanized our country's most famous residence for me. I especially appreciated the fact that the regular staff often serves many administrations and is expected to be discreet and nonpartisan, refraining from support of any political party. Often the bond between the staff and the President's family is close and lasting.
I highly recommend the book for those who would enjoy an inside look at the White House.
This 2020 book is a quick and engrossing read, covering topics including the building's history since John Adams and his family first lived there in 1800 and how it is laid out, and what it's like to work, grow up, dine, celebrate holidays, have pets, and even see ghosts in this 55,000-square foot building. The author also writes about many of the First Ladies and how they made the White House work for their families' needs and tastes, and about the ever-present Secret Service.
I relished all of the fun facts I learned and anecdotes I read about, which humanized our country's most famous residence for me. I especially appreciated the fact that the regular staff often serves many administrations and is expected to be discreet and nonpartisan, refraining from support of any political party. Often the bond between the staff and the President's family is close and lasting.
I highly recommend the book for those who would enjoy an inside look at the White House.
May 10, 2021
Filled with history, anecdotes, illustrations, photos, and fun facts, this nonfiction book about the inner workings of the white house is geared for upper elementary to middle school readers.
The white house staff is shown in a very favorable light--faithfully serving the office of the presidency and the house itself instead of a particular political agenda.
That said, there are many interesting stories about the honored residents of the white house too, including the children and pets who have come and gone. Lyndon Johnson wanted his showers HOT. Abigail Adams hung laundry in the unfinished East wing. Caroline Kennedy attended Kindergarten with about a dozen other children on the third floor of the white house. Each president and first lady have Secret Service code names.
Many of the residence staff--cooks, florists, housekeepers, butlers--have been employed through several administrations. Some were interviewed for this book and convey their affection for the house, the presidential families, and their fellow workers.
Recommended as engaging narrative nonfiction for those interested in our national symbols, and those planning trips to Washington DC.
The white house staff is shown in a very favorable light--faithfully serving the office of the presidency and the house itself instead of a particular political agenda.
That said, there are many interesting stories about the honored residents of the white house too, including the children and pets who have come and gone. Lyndon Johnson wanted his showers HOT. Abigail Adams hung laundry in the unfinished East wing. Caroline Kennedy attended Kindergarten with about a dozen other children on the third floor of the white house. Each president and first lady have Secret Service code names.
Many of the residence staff--cooks, florists, housekeepers, butlers--have been employed through several administrations. Some were interviewed for this book and convey their affection for the house, the presidential families, and their fellow workers.
Recommended as engaging narrative nonfiction for those interested in our national symbols, and those planning trips to Washington DC.
August 28, 2020
I love the White House and was very excited about this book. This book is for older children that may be fascinated with the White House and First Families. It gives you an inside look at the White House and those who live and work there. I can't get past the 35 bathrooms! I can't help but think of all the history inside those walls. The history events it has witnessed and the people that have walked the halls. You will learn that the Lincoln Bedroom was not actually his bedroom but his office. The office where he signed the Emancipation Proclamation. I love all the fun facts that are included within the chapters. There is a listing and description of the different jobs within the White House. From the Chief Usher to Chief Florist. You will see throughout this book the importance of the White House and the families that live there and the people that work there. Plan a trip to tour the White House soon
August 30, 2020
With thanks to NetGalley and Quill Tree Books for an early copy in return for an honest review.
This book is perfect for those who love history and non-fiction...so many great facts and trivia in the book! I liked the layout of the book with each chapter looking at a different aspect of life in the White House, rather than each chapter looking at a different family.
As for the intended audience, although this is targeted for Middle Grade readers I actually think adults would enjoy the book (I did!). Additionally, some of the book might be a bit over an 8- or 9-year old's comprehension. I checked with my students (who are 9) about some of the vocabulary and language and it was tricky. So for the younger middle grade set I would suggest the book is best for kids really into history/non-fiction. But for older middle grades, teens and adults this book is great.
Would give the book 3.5 stars.
This book is perfect for those who love history and non-fiction...so many great facts and trivia in the book! I liked the layout of the book with each chapter looking at a different aspect of life in the White House, rather than each chapter looking at a different family.
As for the intended audience, although this is targeted for Middle Grade readers I actually think adults would enjoy the book (I did!). Additionally, some of the book might be a bit over an 8- or 9-year old's comprehension. I checked with my students (who are 9) about some of the vocabulary and language and it was tricky. So for the younger middle grade set I would suggest the book is best for kids really into history/non-fiction. But for older middle grades, teens and adults this book is great.
Would give the book 3.5 stars.
April 12, 2021
I love reading children's books (this one was about 200 pages so I'm counting it) or non fiction topics. Sometimes I don't need the 950 exposition or details, but the high level fun facts for a topic I'm mildly interested in. (I'm looking at you biographies).
This one is a non partisanship look into behind the scenes at the White House. Who works there, what does it take to put on a state dinner, what's the secrete service like, what were the kids who lived there like etc. Of course, there aren't that many tell all secretes because the primary source, the staff, respects the office and the privacy of the individuals more than anything.
An easy read (targeted at middle grade) with some interesting stories.
This one is a non partisanship look into behind the scenes at the White House. Who works there, what does it take to put on a state dinner, what's the secrete service like, what were the kids who lived there like etc. Of course, there aren't that many tell all secretes because the primary source, the staff, respects the office and the privacy of the individuals more than anything.
An easy read (targeted at middle grade) with some interesting stories.
April 18, 2021
a cute children's book about the white house behind politics. the author interviewed current and former residence staff and wrote about the history of the house and stories of the people who kept the place running: chefs, housekeepers, ushers, engineers, electricians, florists, secret service members, pets, and ghosts (didn't know that many ppl saw lincoln 👻)
the book also showed a glimpse of the relationship between the first family and their staff, how the chief pastry chef bakes a nice mocha cake to comfort hillary clinton after a difficult day, or how jackie kennedy gave the tie her husband last wore before the assassination to their doorman and trusted friend.
very interesting read!
the book also showed a glimpse of the relationship between the first family and their staff, how the chief pastry chef bakes a nice mocha cake to comfort hillary clinton after a difficult day, or how jackie kennedy gave the tie her husband last wore before the assassination to their doorman and trusted friend.
very interesting read!
May 13, 2021
This would be an excellent addition to an elementary and middle school library. The book would give the children a glimpse of the inside workings of the most famous house in our nation. Brower devotes many pages to how the children of our Presidents handled living in the White House. She also includes a chapter on the animals who have resided there over the years.
Included in the book are highlighted "asides" making the book even more interesting with these tidbits of information.
The book is a juvenile literature version of her adult book, "The Residence" which I had read a few years ago.
Included in the book are highlighted "asides" making the book even more interesting with these tidbits of information.
The book is a juvenile literature version of her adult book, "The Residence" which I had read a few years ago.
December 17, 2020
I expected this book geared more towards early elementary students but the target audience is for older students. The book is interesting from a historical viewpoint but feel most students will never pick it up unless a teacher makes it required reading. I liked the secret service code names and some will find the section on White House pets enjoyable overall I believe they won’t be interested enough to read the book in its entirety.
I received an advanced reader copy for free from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received an advanced reader copy for free from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
March 6, 2026
Want to read about the insider details of the Residence our president and his family get to live? Pick up this book and learn about the First Ladies, the President’s children, and even some special “pets” they have had! From the White House staff hiding secrets, to gifts of tiger cubs sent to the President… this book will have you intrigued from cover to cover! Want to know what is happening on the eight floors, one hundred thirty two rooms, and thirty five bathrooms in the White House? Read this book to find out more!
July 21, 2020
Some kids like to read fiction, while other children prefer books filled with facts and interesting trivia. Exploring the White House: Inside America's Most Famous Home is PERFECT for little fact-lovers who enjoy poring over books to learn new things. I especially loved the inclusion of photographs of White House staff and family members to bring the interesting stories to life!
(I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
(I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
October 26, 2020
I won this book from Goodreads! I was so hapy!
I saw it's written for older children and it is done in an excellent way! It has history, facts, fun facts, clear and easy to read but filled with new information and it's exactly what a 12 yo want to read/know about the White House. I loved the book. After I read it I gave it to my child who immediately read some of it and loved how the information is presented.
Cuddo Kate!
I saw it's written for older children and it is done in an excellent way! It has history, facts, fun facts, clear and easy to read but filled with new information and it's exactly what a 12 yo want to read/know about the White House. I loved the book. After I read it I gave it to my child who immediately read some of it and loved how the information is presented.
Cuddo Kate!
November 28, 2020
Exploring the White House: Inside America's Most Famous Home is a nonfiction book for older students. It will be popular with my history buff students who find most elementary nonfiction books not detailed enough. I enjoyed this book as an adult. It was filled with interesting anecdotes and interviews with White House staff. The author does a good job of keeping it nonpartisan.
Thanks to the publisher and to Net Galley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thanks to the publisher and to Net Galley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews