Read My Pins

“Jewelry isn’t ordinarily a tool of political persuasion, but in this beautiful book, Madeleine Albright, American ambassador to the United Nations and then the nation’s first female secretary of state, tells the compelling story of how these small objects became part of her ‘personal diplomatic arsenal.’” — The Chicago Tribune

From New York Times bestselling author and former secretary of state Madeleine Albright, Read My Pins is a story and celebration of how one woman’s jewelry collection was used to make diplomatic history.

Part illustrated memoir, part social history, Read My Pins provides an intimate look at Albrights life through the brooches she wore. Her collection is both international and democratic—dime-store pins share pride of place with designer creations and family heirlooms. Included are the antique eagle purchased to celebrate Albrights appointment as secretary of state, the zebra pin she wore when meeting Nelson Mandela, and the Valentines Day heart forged by Albrights five-year-old daughter. Read My Pins features more than 200 photographs, along with compelling and often humorous stories about jewelry, global politics, and the life of one of Americas most accomplished and fascinating diplomats.

This beautiful, witty, and historically significant political memoir reveals:

Diplomatic History Up Close: The stories behind the pins, from the serpent worn to unnerve the Iraqis to the zebra pin donned for a meeting with Nelson Mandela. A Stunning Jewelry Collection: Glimpse over 200 of Albright’s brooches, from dime-store finds and family heirlooms to dazzling designer creations. The First Female Secretary of State: An intimate and often humorous look at life on the world stage, including the story behind the antique eagle she purchased to mark her historic appointment. Illustrated Memoir & Social History: A unique blend of personal storytelling and political insight, making it a perfect coffee table book and a fascinating read for history buffs.