In True Gretch – Young Adult Edition: Lessons for Anyone Who Wants to Make a Difference, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivers a candid, funny, and empowering account of her life and career. This young adult adaptation of her memoir is packed with valuable insights, real-life challenges, and a dose of humor, making it a must-read for teens and young adults eager to leave their mark on the world. Published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers, this 192-page book blends personal stories with leadership lessons, offering an engaging and inspiring read.
Title: True Gretch -- Young Adult Edition: Lessons for Anyone Who Wants to Make a Difference
Author: Gretchen Whitmer
Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Release Date: January 28, 2025
Formats: eBook, Hardcover, audio
About the book:
The young adult edition of the unconventionally honest, deeply personal, and sharply funny account from Michigan governor and rising Democratic star Gretchen Whitmer is packed with remarkable insights for young people wishing to make a difference in the world.
When Gretchen Whitmer was growing up, her beloved grandmother Nino taught her that you can always find something good in other people. “Even the meanest person might have pretty eyes,” she would say, a piece of advice that Gretchen carries with her today in her role as the governor of Michigan. (And one that resonated more than another her grandmother offered: “never part your hair in the middle.”)
From navigating a kidnapping and assassination plot in which she herself was a target to facing monumental challenges during a global pandemic, Big Gretch (as she’s now known) shares the key pieces of wisdom that have shaped her trailblazing career and personal experiences in this often hilarious, always uplifting book. Along the way, she tells stories about growing up gutsy in the Midwest, the wild comments she’s encountered as a public figure, and how to neutralize high-profile bullies with a fearless sense of humor.
Told in her famously straightforward and slyly funny voice, this young adult edition of the governor’s story not only offers an intimate insight into the life of a politician with an astounding journey, but also affords extraordinary lessons for young people everywhere who wish to make a difference in the world.
My Review
Whitmer’s voice shines through in this book—direct, humorous, and unapologetically real. From her grandmother’s quirky advice ("Even the meanest person might have pretty eyes") to her own experiences as a trailblazing female leader, Whitmer doesn’t just tell her story; she offers readers a blueprint for resilience and leadership.
The book takes us through some of the toughest moments of her political career, including surviving an assassination plot and leading Michigan through the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, despite the gravity of these topics, Whitmer’s storytelling remains engaging and often hilarious. She seamlessly balances serious moments with witty anecdotes, making the book both thought-provoking and entertaining.
Lessons in Leadership and Courage
One of the most compelling aspects of True Gretch is its ability to speak directly to young people who want to make a difference. Whitmer shares invaluable lessons on standing up to bullies (both personal and political), leading with integrity, and finding humor in difficult situations. Her message is clear: you don’t have to be perfect to be a leader—you just have to care enough to take action.
Her reflections on growing up in the Midwest add a relatable touch, making this book feel less like a traditional political memoir and more like a conversation with a wise (and hilarious) mentor.
A Perfect Read for Young Leaders
This book is ideal for:
✅ Teens and young adults interested in leadership, activism, or politics.
✅ Aspiring changemakers who want real-world advice on making an impact.
✅ Readers who enjoy humor and personal storytelling in nonfiction.
Final Thoughts: A Funny, Fearless, and Inspiring Read
True Gretch – Young Adult Edition is more than just a memoir—it’s a call to action for young people who want to create positive change. Whitmer’s mix of humor, honesty, and wisdom makes this an engaging and uplifting read that will leave readers feeling both inspired and empowered.
If you’re looking for a book that proves leadership can be both tough and rewarding—with a few laughs along the way—this is the perfect pick.
🔥 Highly recommended for young readers ready to take on the world!
Gretchen Whitmer is the governor of Michigan and a rising figure in US politics. Known for her bold and plainspoken style, Whitmer is a national voice on the rights of women, voters, and the LGBTQ+ community. She rose to national prominence for her leadership in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic, when her efforts to save lives in the state earned her the nickname “That Woman from Michigan” from the president. Later that year, a domestic terrorist cell began planning to kidnap and kill her, a plot that was foiled by the FBI and state police. Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander who first ran for office at age twenty-nine, has served in both state houses, and has never lost an election. She is the proud mother of two daughters, a huge Detroit Lions fan, and the subject of the song “Big Gretch” by rapper GMac Cash.
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