Andersen previously wrote 28 popular biographies about Princess Diana, Barbra Streisand, the Kennedys, and the Bush family, among others.

[3][4] Barack and Michelle describes the Obamas' marriage as being difficult for several years, as Barack left his accomplished wife, Michelle, to care for children and household, himself turning away from a lucrative legal career to pursue his political ambitions with little success or income.

[5] The couple grew closer, according to the book, beginning in 2001 after the sickness of their daughter, Sasha, and Obama's growing political success.

[5] The book draws in part on previously published accounts and Obama's own memoirs.

[4] It has been described as a "glowing" portrait of the Obamas, and characterizing their marriage as "solid".