I recently listened to Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray, and though it was over 17 hours long, it was absolutely fascinating and incredibly informative. Frances Perkins was a remarkable woman—wife, mother, and the first woman to hold a cabinet position in U.S. history. Her work with President Roosevelt on social welfare laws and New Deal programs, including Social Security and the Fair Labor Standards Act, was groundbreaking. She was also a tireless advocate for eliminating child labor and establishing a minimum wage.

Beyond her professional achievements, Perkins faced personal struggles, including a difficult marriage and challenges with her daughter, yet she remained incredibly strong and dedicated to her mission. I wish more people knew about her, and I’m so glad I do now. This book is a must-read (or listen!) for anyone interested in history, politics, or learning about strong women who shaped the world.