“First Women” by Kate Andersen Brower (The Residence) offers an inside portrait of presidential wives, from Jackie Kennedy to Michelle Obama.  There is plenty if dish, but author Anderson also brings to light the unexpected skill set needed by these partners to the president, from managing White House functions to setting social or political goals that complement their husband’s agendas, and navigating “the treacherous rapids” of Washington’s social and media environments. Anderson “weaves a highly readable story through original reporting and the thorough use of earlier histories.”