True Gretch: What I've Learned About Life, Leadership, and Everything in Between

by Gretchen Whitmer

From trailblazing Michigan governor and rising Democratic star Gretchen Whitmer comes an unconventionally honest, personal, and funny account of her remarkable life and career, full of insights that guided her through a global pandemic, showdowns with high-profile bullies, and even a kidnapping and assassination plot.

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. Nino’s words persuaded Whitmer to look for the good in any person or situation—just one of many colorful personal experiences that have shaped her political vision. (And, as Whitmer writes, one that resonated more than another piece of advice her grandmother offered, to “never part your hair in the middle.”)

In this candid and inspiring book, Whitmer reveals the principles and instincts that have shaped her extraordinary career, from her early days as a lawyer and legislator and her 2018 election as governor of Michigan, to her bold and innovative actions as she led the state through a series of unprecedented crises. Her motto in politics, she writes, is to “get shit done.”

Whitmer shares the lessons in resilience that steered her through some of the most challenging events in Michigan’s history, such as the Covid-19 pandemic, a five-hundred-year flood, the rise of domestic terrorism, and the fierce fight to protect reproductive rights.

Along the way, she tells stories about the outsize characters in her family, her lifelong clumsy streak, the wild comments she’s heard on the campaign trail, her self-deprecating social media campaigns (including her star turn as a talking potato with lipstick), and the slyly funny tactics she deploys to neutralize her opponents.

Written with Whitmer’s trademark sense of humor and straight-shooting style, True Gretch is not only a compelling account of her remarkable journey, but also a blueprint for anyone who wants to make a difference in their community, their country, or the world. It is a testament to the power of humor, perseverance, and compassion in the face of darkness.

Genres: Nonfiction, Memoir, Politics, Audiobook, Biography, Biography Memoir, History

176 pages, Hardcover

First published July 9, 2024

About the author

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.

source: Amazon

Reviews

[Lisa of Troy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Gretchen Whitmer on several occasions while I was a student at Michigan State.

Michigan State is located in East Lansing, and the capital of Michigan is Lansing. The two cities literally kiss each other—that’s how close they are.

Gretchen Whitmer seemed to attend all events, even the dreadfully boring ones. She showed up and has been showing up for decades. Even before she took the governor’s chair, she has been present and shadowing that job for years.

Michigan has faced serious challenges in recent times, and Governor Gretchen Whitmer has led our State with a calm, experienced hand.

The book, True Gretch, discusses some of Michigan’s challenges.

Despite serving the State of Michigan for decades, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has had negativity thrown her way. While requesting FEMA to declare Michigan a federal disaster in the wake of COVID to release federal funds (something 7 states had already done and were approved), President Donald Trump said, “And your governor of Michigan, I mean she’s not stepping up. I don’t know if she knows what’s going on. But all she does is sit there and blame the federal government. She doesn’t get it done. […] We’ve had a big problem with the young, a woman governor from, you know who I’m talking about, from Michigan.” (10, 11)

After Governor Whitmer gave the State of the State address, a Fox News affiliate decided to interview people about Governor Whitmer’s body. “Dress is looking a little tight.” “Look how tight it is on her arms.” “Some Facebook users also asked if her breasts were real, with posts asking what size they are. One man said ‘nice rack,’ and another [said] ‘She’s showing off her cans. Why not? You got it. Show it.’” (63, 64)

Whitmer’s experience resonated deeply with me. If I post a YouTube video about a book, I will receive hateful comments about having wrinkles, etc.

But either I can decide to retreat and live a small, quiet life, hoping that I never upset anyone, or I can live my life fully and keep doing good, important work.

If you are interested in the audiobook, Governor Gretchen Whitmer narrates it herself.

Now….for the parts that I didn’t like about the book.

Was it as strong as Michelle Obama’s Becoming or The Light We Carry? No.

One of the things that really made Michelle Obama’s books appealing is that I could give them to Republicans. In fact, I took a Republican to The Light We Carry’s book event, and he started clapping by the end. In contrast, True Gretch, is geared more toward Democrats and isn’t as neutral. For example, Whitmer discusses a time when insurance companies didn’t want to pay for abortions resulting from rape. A woman would have to buy a separate abortion policy before being raped—she would have to anticipate being attacked and purchase coverage. I live in Michigan, and I didn’t know this was happening. Everyone, regardless of party, should be aware of this law. But then Whitmer writes, “For the first time since 1984, Democrats won the governorship, the Senate, and the House. With control of the legislature, we could finally repeal that terrible law.” (31)

These types of comments are divisive, and we need to work together.

True Gretch ends with a powerful quote from Theodore Roosevelt, one of my favorite quotes. The problem is…..Brene Brown opens her book, Daring Greatly, with the same quote. In this context, it felt a bit plagiaristic.

Overall, a great book from a powerful and experienced woman. Looking forward to what the future will hold for her. After all, I did read The Audacity of Hope while Barack Obama was just a Senator from Illinois.

*Thanks, Simon and Schuster, for a free copy of this book in exchange for my fair and unbiased opinion.

The Green Light at the End of the Dock (How much I spent):
Hardcover Text – Free/Nada/Zilch provided by publisher
Audiobook – $84.99 per year through Everand

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[Jamie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This isn't a super deep memoir by any means, but it's still a light, enjoyable read that presents Whitmer as kind, witty, and down-to-earth politician who seems to truly care about her constituents and the state of Michigan. “It's Shark Week, motherf****r!”

[Datschneids · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick read. Nothing wrong with it, but it's written for voters and not anyone looking for dry political insight. Still, Gretch 2028.

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s shark week, mf! 🦈

[s.penkevich [hiatus-will return-miss you all]]

Oh hey, my governor.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE BIG GRETCH

I knew I would enjoy this, but it truly was so humanizing. I already held the utmost respect for this powerhouse of a woman and this brief but impactful and entertaining read solidified that. When I was younger, I followed the typical narrative of “I can’t wait to get out of this state.” As I’ve grown and planted my own roots here, a large part in the shift is truly because I feel safe, protected, and though I’ve been given the ability to thrive in Michigan. Leaders like Gretch, those who came before, and those that will come after, are a large part in that, and I am grateful. From wanting to leave, to now being solidly dedicated to community building, economic development and resiliency, and activism in a matter of less than a decade is really saying something.

Gretchen—next time you’re in Grand Rapids, coffee at Scorpion Hearts? I would love to gab like girlies do, talk about life, community, and all things good. :’)

[Clif Hostetler · Rating 3 out of 5]

Listening to this book is equivalent to spending an afternoon (3.5 hrs, 160 pages) with Michigan's governor while she tells stories from her life in politics. She starts off by embracing Trump's decisive intended slight when he referred to her as "that woman from Michigan." She goes on to say, "I refused to let the president define me. I took his insult, flipped it, and made it my own." Indeed there were numerous examples shared where it was necessary to move on from insults and political attacks.

But there were also threats of violence and even kidnapping that needed to be taken seriously. She shares how her family was effected by those threats. She also shares how in 2013 early in her state legislative career she was motivated to tell about her own rape experience during a debate on a GOP proposed rape insurance.

She gives advice and examples on using active listening while meeting with constituents. Her campaign slogan used during her first state wide race was based on such a conversation. A mother with a hospitalized child had been diverted from visiting her child by a tire blowout after hitting a chuckhole. So instead of commenting on hospital or medical issues as might be expected the constituent said, "Fix the damn roads." Gretchen Whitmer decided to use that as her campaign slogan.

The reader does learn some about her personal life. She has remarried after her first marriage, and her two daughters are from the first marriage. It's a bit surprising to learn that she uses her ex-husband, a professional photographer, to cover her campaign events. She has even publicly thanked her ex for his campaign assistance.

There's advice offered that can be applied by any of us in dealing with life's challenges. "We must never be afraid to show up. You're not going to get everything right immediately, but you've got to get in there and try."

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will start by admitting I’m a fan of Whitmer to begin with. And this quick read makes me admire her more. It’s a fast 150 page read that is definitely aiming to raise her profile. Her name is increasingly batted about as being possible future presidential candidate and I would love to see a leader like her in office. She is very candid in this book about her goofiness and sense of humor, but also that she remembers that being kind gets you further than snarkiness, even when someone has been awful to you.

I had the privilege of meeting Whitmer summer of 2023 and can tell you that things that she write about in this book are true. She talks about how she realizes it’s better to ask questions and be curious and the time I saw her I noted this to be true. She came to visit a local business and concerns were that this was a just a “photo op”. What caught my attention was that Whitmer did way more listening than talking.

I do believe she cares deeply about the people of Michigan and the rest of the nation would be lucky to have more of her influence in government on a national level.


And just as fun to listen to. Maybe even better.

[Brooke Gordon · Rating 4 out of 5]

So so good but very political. I know you’re probably sitting there thinking “Brooke no shit it’s going to be political”. But hey— I thought it was going to be more of her lore and personal lore. I am YEARNING for a deeper understanding of her life - not just political career.

Overall great though don’t get me wrong.

[Reilly Ingleson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick read jam packed with a lot of good stuff. I REALLY respect & admire this woman! BIG GRETCH FOR PRES SOMEDAY PLEASEEEEEEEEEEEE

[Malia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable if abbreviated memoir that paints Whitmer as a personable and dedicated politician. I didn't really learn anything new about her, but if I lived in Michigan, she would certainly have my vote.

[Anika (Encyclopedia BritAnika) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I mean.. this is the fluffy make you look good to voters political memoir all the politicos do. But it's short, the audio was fun because it hearing Whitmer's thick Michigan accent took me back to my roots. I legitimately cried when she talked about her rape in college. The plot to kill her was terrifying. And there was also a bunch of don't take any of it seriously and keep going that was fun. Also noted she made a point of outlining all the team around her and who had parts in things throughout, she did not take sole credit for any of her achievements, and that was nice to hear from a leader.

[Erica Zutz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have admired Gretch from a distance being one of her constituents, and I was really excited to see this book. It was really good. It was very encouraging and empowering to hear her story from her point of view. I am proud to have female governor with a do no harm but take no shit attitude.

[Maven_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

True Gretch: What I’ve Learned About Life, Leadership, and Everything in Between by Gretchen Whitmer

In True Gretch, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer offers a personal and candid memoir filled with life lessons and political reflections from her years as a lawyer, state legislator, and leader through some of the most turbulent events in recent American history. She shares the wisdom that shaped her, from the folksy encouragement of her grandmother to her hard lessons steering a state through the Covid‑19 pandemic, a historic flood, and violent threats against her life, including a plot to kidnap and kill her that was foiled by the FBI. Alongside these moments, she recounts humorous personal memories, campaign trail stories, and the straight‑talking leadership philosophy that has defined her public life.

From the outset, Whitmer’s voice feels plainspoken and upbeat, her reflections on resilience and service offering both inspiration and insight into the pressures of public office. I appreciated how the memoir balances gravity with levity, especially her self‑deprecating humor and the warm family anecdotes that humanize her beyond the political headlines. At times I wanted deeper introspection on key decisions, but her honesty and vigor made this an engaging read.

4 out of 5: an uplifting and thoughtful look at leadership from the front lines.

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t live in MI anymore, and when Gretchen was leading our state through the pandemic and everything that happened after, my heart broke for her. As an expectant mother during that time, I couldn’t imagine the trials she was going through with her family. She touches on that here. I still look to her for leadership and I appreciate the funny, smart things she says. Basically, be a good person. Thanks Gretch!!

[Lauren Klomparens · Rating 3 out of 5]

I listened to this because I enjoy hearing perspectives from "the other side". Honestly, I learned alot about our governor from this book. She seems genuine and she tries to do what's right, though her idea of right and mine differ depending on the topic. It was heartbreaking to hear her talk about the ways she has been treated as our governor (lack of respect, kidnapping plots, crowds with guns, etc). So, while I still wouldn't vote for her, I have a new understanding of her as our governor.

[Lauren Goldstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love my governor <3

[Anna Vanderhoef · Rating 5 out of 5]

A strong woman leading with kindness and positive governance <3 Thank you Big Gretch

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

No matter where you stand politically, it’s easy to see that Gretchen Whitmer is hilarious and humble. Both traits shine through clearly and brightly in her political memoir, True Gretch.

As a Michigander, I appreciated, on a local level, all of the stories Gretchen shared from her childhood to her campaigns and beyond. One story I will never forget is when in 2011, an anti-bullying bill was being voted on. The Catholic church, and others, got the bill’s authors to add language exempting people who bully for a “sincerely held religious belief or moral conviction.” I never knew that had occurred, and I’m appalled to know that language was added, even if just temporarily (as the Senate adopted the House version of the bill which thankfully did not include that exemption).

Gretchen isn’t afraid to apologize for wrongdoings or mistakes; in a world where no one wants to admit an error, especially politicians, it’s inspiring that she, as Governor and in the roles she held previously to her governorship, is willing to do so.

[Scott Rola · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was comforting hearing Gretchen Whitmer begin her book with the same advice she shared from her grandmother at my college graduation - work hard, don’t get married til you’re 28, and part your hair however the hell you want (her version). While brief, this book is packed full of practical leadership advice and allowed readers to get to know more about Whitmer’s upbringing, approaches to life, and her humanity. I especially loved the way she took on the misogyny she’s experienced in her account of her dress critiques and the way she’s connected with Michiganders in her recounting the Big Gretch song release. Whatever your political affiliation, I think her account of the 2021 domestic terrorist plot should be required reading. Highly recommend to any Michigander and beyond. SW, MF!

[Jarek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE BIG GRETCH!

Growing up in Michigan and being a MSU alum as well as having divorced parents and my mom being a prominent HBIC woman figure, Gretchen is just amazing.

I had the AMAZING opportunity to actually work on her original campaign back in 2017 and got to meet her many times. She is such a light within the nasty world of politics as she is just so human through it all. She truly has been thrown challenges in life and takes them to better herself and better others around her. Hope to see her at a very high political figure later in life.

[Marissa McGee · Rating 5 out of 5]

BIG GRETCH 2028!!

This was a super easy and fun read and was exactly as the title says; lessons about life and things she's learned. I look forward to hopefully reading another book from her down the road that covers her career & policies in-depth.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finished this book last night. Listened to her playlist on my walk this morning and I feel empowered! Admired her before reading this and admire her even more now that she’s let me get to know her better. So proud to have “ that woman from Michigan” as my governor; batshit crazy or not 🤣

[Matthew Boak · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was a shorter, quicker read. It is a classic political memoir, diving into topics that are popular with voters, but not diving too far into any specific area. There was a lot in here I knew about Governor Whitmer, but also quite a bit I didn’t know, especially about her family and personal life. I also appreciated when she talked about running for State House, which is the first office she was ever elected to. I wish there was more talk of her early years in office.

Even knowing about half of what she talked about, the book wasn’t boring. There was a good amount of humor strewn about, which made it a light-hearted read. Overall, I think this gives folks a great overview of who Gretchen Whitmer is in case they ever needed to know about her to, let’s say, form an opinion as to why they’d vote for her. 👀

[Marc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, I am a fan of "that woman from Michigan." This short memoir gave me some hope and was a lot of fun to read.

[Molly Yonker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was excellent. I wish more people would read because there are some very relatable experiences and it humanizes her a lot. I liked the political and personal side and did laugh/cry at a few points 🦈

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

At least a 4! No nonsense here, just civil rules to live and govern by. Our governor, so glad to have her on our side!

[syd · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Icon, A Legend.

[Danny Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was skeptical about this book… I wasn’t sure why Gretchen felt the need to write a book, especially one so short. But it was personable, entertaining and heartfelt. And just the right length. Made me want to vote for Gretchen even more. (Ah, and I’ve found my why!).

[Kris Tyler · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing book written by an amazing woman. She is a wonderful role model for women of all ages! She is definitely someone whom I could be friends with! I know I’m proud to be a Michigander because of her!