True Gretch: Lessons for Anyone Who Wants to Make a Difference

Featured
True Gretch
Age Range
14+
Release Date
January 28, 2025
ISBN
978-1665983761
Buy This 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.

Editor review

1 review
That Woman In Michigan
(Updated: June 04, 2026)
Overall rating
 
4.3
Writing Style
 
5.0
Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)
 
4.0
Learning Value
 
4.0
True Gretch is a behind the scenes look at Michigan Governor, Gretchen Whitmer, who has had the honor of serving this great state for two terms, and yes, I did vote for her.

Being born and raised in Michigan, I've seen a lot of good and bad come through. Governor Whitmer has been one of the better one's we've had, even though I don't always agree with what she says or does... but isn't that how it goes with politics? I was excited to read her book, see how and why she's made the decisions she has, and more.

In her book, Governor Whitmer speaks to readers about her childhood growing up in Michigan, her family, her love of sharks, the attempted kidnapping, and much more. In addition to the usual flattering chapters about herself and her life and career to date, she takes on a surprising number of honest but unfashionable stances that she simply doesn't have to. From admitting mistakes or being able to say "I'm sorry", her honesty, decency and commitment to public service shine through in a way that feels both genuine and a fresh breath of air.

Governor Whitmer has a dedication to empathy and compassion. She does it because she knows it's the best and most efficient way to get everyone moving forward together, doing right by Michigan citizens.
With each personal story, she offers a lesson and a word of encouragement to readers. She has great ethics and sense of humor, both shine in her book.

There is a super fun Q&A with her daughters at the end, as well as a neat playlist. There are several black & white photos of Governor Whitmer and her family.
In the backmatter readers will also find resources for the Crisis Hotline, the National Human Trafficking Hotline, and much more!

True Gretch is a terrific book for anyone who needs to believe that there are still people and politicians out there who understand and care about doing what's right for their people. This book would be perfect for high school readers interested in learning more about a [current] female politician and her path to success.
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