Washington: First lady Michelle Obama is challenging assertions she's forcefully imposed her will on White House aides, saying she's tired of people portraying her as "some kind of angry black woman."

Mrs Obama tells CBS News she hasn't read New York Times reporter Jodi Kantor's new book, which characterizes her as a behind-the-scenes force in the Executive Mansion whose strong views often draw her into conflict with President Barack Obama's top advisers.

She says she cares deeply about her husband and that is "one of his biggest confidants." But Mrs Obama also says she doesn't read books about "other people's impressions of people."

Asked specifically about an assertion of dissension between herself and then-chief of staff Rahm Emanuel, she says she's has "never had a cross word" with him.

Tags: Barack Obama, First Lady, Jodi Kantor, Michelle Obama, White House

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