This companion to "The American Presidents" takes a look at the "other" occupant of the White House. All 44 First Ladies are included, from Martha Washington to Laura Bush. Each life is detailed in a biographical essay (2000 - 5000 words), with sidebars discussing the President and a well-known anecdote or episode about the First Lady herself. As well as looking at the First Ladies themselves, the guide also contains articles on their roles as the nation's social hostess, their campaigns, legislative activism, and presidential partners. There is also a look at family life in the White House. The volume concludes with a section on "other White House Hostesses" and finally a special essay on "State First Ladies".