Upstairs at the White House by J. B. West and Mary Lynn Kotz offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the personal lives of U.S. presidents and their families. Readers appreciate its engaging anecdotes and historical insights. However, some feel it lacks critical depth. Overall, it provides a captivating and affectionate glimpse into a unique place.

A reader who enjoys Upstairs at the White House by J. B. West and Mary Lynn Kotz is likely interested in American history, presidential anecdotes, and insider perspectives. Similar readers might enjoy The Residence by Kate Andersen Brower or The Butler’s Guide to Running the Home and Other Graces by Stanley Ager.

Upstairs at the White House by J. B. West and Mary Lynn Kotz provides insights into the personal experiences of J. B. West, the former Chief Usher of the White House, as he navigates presidential transitions. The book offers a unique perspective on the daily lives and challenges faced by families residing in the executive residence.

Informative / Nostalgic / Contemplative / Heartwarming / Emotional

- Upstairs at the White House offers a unique perspective from J. B. West, who served as the Chief Usher of the White House for nearly three decades, granting insights into the lives of several First Families.
- The book reveals J. B. West's firsthand experiences and close interactions with First Ladies from Eleanor Roosevelt to Pat Nixon, showcasing how personal and political events shaped the atmosphere in the Executive Mansion.
- J. B. West was known for his exceptional ability to discreetly manage both the household staff and the complex social schedules of the White House, contributing to its reputation as a finely-tuned residence and hub of U.S. diplomacy.

**J. B. West**  
Served in the White House from 1941 to 1969, starting as an usher and becoming the chief usher in 1957. He worked closely with several first families, particularly the first ladies, to manage the day-to-day operations and various projects at the White House.

**Mary Lynn Kotz**  
A Washington, DC-based journalist who assisted West in writing his memoir. She contributed her expertise in history, politics, and art to the project.

**Jacqueline “Jackie” Bouvier Kennedy**  
First lady from 1961 to 1963, known for her elegance and privacy. She worked with West on a restoration project for the White House and balanced public expectations with personal privacy.

**Mary “Mamie” Eisenhower**  
The first lady from 1953 to 1961, recognized for her hospitality and personal attention to staff. She managed the domestic affairs of the White House with a structured approach.

**Elizabeth “Bess” Truman**  
She served as first lady from 1945 to 1953, known for her down-to-earth demeanor and significant influence as an advisor to President Truman. She balanced traditional first lady duties with her advisory role.

**Claudia “Lady Bird” Johnson**  
First lady from 1963 to 1969, remembered for her contributions to environmental awareness through a national beautification project. She delegated daily White House management but maintained control over domestic matters.

**Eleanor Roosevelt**  
First lady from 1933 to 1945, known for her energetic public service and commitment to civil rights. She maintained a high level of activity and independent projects throughout her tenure.

**Patricia “Pat” Nixon**  
First lady starting in 1969, known for her warmth and spontaneity. Her focus was on encouraging volunteerism, although West served only a short time during her tenure.

**Lyndon Baines Johnson**  
President from 1963 to 1969, notable for his demanding nature and use of the entire White House for business. His requests offered insight into the staff's behind-the-scenes work.

**Franklin Delano Roosevelt**  
President from 1933 to 1945, characterized by his significant challenges due to paralysis and his leadership during critical historical events. His tenure demonstrated the essential role of the White House staff.

**Harrison “Harry” Truman**  
Served as president from 1945 to 1953, noted for his close family ties and protective nature. He managed significant renovations of the White House during his administration.

**Dwight “Ike” Eisenhower**  
President from 1953 to 1961, a former general known for his formal chain of command and delegation of domestic duties to Mamie. He maintained regular hours and enjoyed leisure activities.

**Howell G. Crim**  
Chief usher when West began his tenure, known for his strict adherence to high standards in manners and morals. He mentored West, emphasizing flexibility and loyalty to the White House.

**John Fitzgerald Kennedy**  
President from 1961 to 1963, closely examined in terms of his private concerns with press coverage and the management of the White House budget. He and Jackie relaxed the formality of White House events.

**Richard M. Nixon**  
Became president in 1969, noted for the transitional cordiality between administrations and for changes made to the White House facilities early in his term. West retired shortly after Nixon took office.

J. B. West

Mary Lynn Kotz

Adult

Autobiography / Memoir

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Upstairs at the White House and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Upstairs at the White House Summary and Study Guide

Background

Upstairs at the White House Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Roosevelts”

Part 1 Upstairs at the White House Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Trumans”

Part 2 Upstairs at the White House Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Eisenhowers”

Part 3 Upstairs at the White House Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Kennedys”

Part 4 Upstairs at the White House Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “The Johnsons”

Part 5 Upstairs at the White House Part 5 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “The Nixons”

Part 6 Upstairs at the White House Part 6 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

Upstairs at the White House Key Figures

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Themes

Upstairs at the White House Themes

Index of Terms

Upstairs at the White House Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

Upstairs at the White House Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Upstairs at the White House Essay Topics

Upstairs at the White House: My Life with the First Ladies

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Upstairs at the White House?

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Book Details