Churchill's Mum: The Story of Jennie Jerome, an American Heiress

Description:

In 1964, Winston Churchill reflects on his mother, Jennie Jerome-the American heiress who defied Victorian norms to forge his destiny. From Brooklyn to the Boer War, this is the story of the woman who taught her son how to lead.

Brief description: Sandi Jerome is a screenwriter and author of fiction, non-fiction, and produced screenplays. She has an advanced degree in screenwriting from UCLA and has written dozens of award-winning scripts, with one animated script being produced by BlackOrb Studios. She did the book adaptations for HIJACKED, a movie about the heroes of Flight 705 and JAKE AND CLARA a movie based on the book by David R. Stokes. She won a Native American in Media Alliance fellowship twice, and has been a finalist in the Nicholls Fellowship, Page International, Final Draft Big Break, and Austin Film Festival with five different scripts. She is the author of a YA fantasy series, KIRA AND HENRY, a 2024 Kindle Book Review Semifinalist. After selling her technology company, she now writes full-time from her home in Florida where she developed the WILMA WALLABY - GIRL DETECTIVE series. She loves soccer and theme park food. Her husband, Keith Jerome, is Winston's fifth cousin; a few times removed. Visit Sandi's website at SandraJerome.com.

Review Quotes:

Anna

Reviewed in the United States on September 8, 2025

Format: Paperback

I have always been fascinated by Churchill's life. This book is well-written and thoroughly researched, and as I suspected, an empowering mum was behind the man. I did not know his mother was from America, although she spent most of her young years in France and Italy. I loved the photos sprinkled throughout the book. I had no idea so many wealthy Americans married into royalty in the 1800s. Her father founded the first two major American racecourses, from which the wealth originated. She was obviously an intelligent woman, and her belief that "flexibility is a strength" is thought-provoking.

David R. Groscup

Reviewed in the United States on December 19, 2025

Churchill's Mum is a fascinating look at the life of Jennie Jerome, and it brings her to life in a way that standard history books often fail to do. I really enjoyed the unique way the authors used an elderly Winston Churchill to recount his memories, which made his mother's unstoppable spirit feel very immediate. From her brave experiences during the war in Paris to her tireless work leading a hospital ship to South Africa, it becomes clear that Winston's own legendary resolve was inherited from her. The chapters covering her travels to Russia and Japan also highlight how influential she was as an unofficial diplomat long before such roles were common for women. This is an inspiring and well-researched read for anyone who enjoys the stories of trailblazing women who helped shape world events.