Extras

FOR EVERYONE

KitLit TV Read Out Loud

FOR KIDS

Want to be a reporter like me or pup reporter Maggie Mae?  This activity sheet will show you the way.

Here are some fun Jackie and the Books She Loved activity sheets you can download:

WRITE LIKE JACKIE

JACKIE’S DESIGN YOUR OWN BOOK MARK

BE AN INQUIRING PHOTOGRAPHER LIKE JACKIE

BE A JOURNALIST LIKE JACKIE

JACKIE AND THE BOOKS SHE LOVED LAUNCH CRAFT

For the Launch on November 7, 2023, the Chappaqua Children’s Room Staff created a fun craft activity.

Jackie and the Books She Loved Launch Craft Directions

FOR LIBRARIANS, TEACHERS, AND PARENTS

I hope my picture book brings joy and learning to you and the children in your life. This curriculum guide helps teachers and librarians integrate Jackie and the Books She Loved into the English Language Arts Curriculum. Parents and caregivers also will enjoy the curriculum guide as they share the book with their children. Activity sheets contain interactive and engaging ideas for story time and beyond.

Downloadable Activity Sheets for Jackie and the Books She Loved:  

JACKIE’S READERS’ WORKSHOP LAUNCH                 JACKIE’S WRITERS’ WORKSHOP LAUNCH

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

As a school library media specialist I was always offering book advice or reader advisory. Here are my latest book recommendations:

 

The Best Picture Books to Inspire Young People to Be Readers and Writers on Shepherd.com

My 3 Favorite Reads of 2023 on Shepherd.com

 

 

FROM MY LATEST NEWSLETTER…

JUNE 2026

It was a pleasure to donate copies of Jackie and the Books She Loved to the White Plains PTA 2026 Free Book Celebration in May. For 20 years I worked in the White Plains School District as a library media specialist so it meant a lot to share Jackie with the current students. It was a successful day!

This month I have two great picture book recommendations, fiction and nonfiction. Cowboys at the Ballet: The Story of Choreographer Agnes de Mille, written by Claire Wren Bobrow and illustrated by Ilaria Urbinati(Atheneum Books) is a spirited story about the legendary choreographer. From a dusty California town Agnes de Mille galloped to New York and London chasing her dream to dance. A delightful read about the talented and determined young woman. Snappy writing and digital artwork effectively capture the energy of this story.
Milton Makes A Move written by Jonathan Graziano and illustrated by Dan Davis(Margaret K. McElderry Books) debuts on August 4. A “feelings” book about curious Milton, a pug pup, who is nervous about being adopted–as is his new owner. You can meet the author and Miton at Barnes & Noble, Union Square, New York City on Sunday, August 2 at 2PM.
Mark your calendar for the amazing Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival, Saturday, September 26, 10AM- 4PM at the Chappaqua Train Station. As a former board member who has been involved since it started in 2013, I’m thrilled to be there again this year with my book Jackie and the Books She Loved. Looking forward to seeing  readers and old and new friends at this fun filled event. Not to forget all the talented authors and illustrators who will be there. Take a look!

MAY  2026

The National First Ladies Day JACKIE AND THE BOOKS SHE LOVED book signing on Saturday, April 25 was a great celebration at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua, NY. Loved meeting readers and seeing old friends and neighbors who enjoyed a slice of Jackie’s wedding cake. Thanks to proprietor Mark Kramer and the amazing staff for their gracious hospitality.

My latest “Portraits & Profiles” in the Inside Press magazine was fun. I love flowers and this question.  The responses were delightful, along with the beautiful portraits created by Naava Katz.
My photo cards are now on sale at Whispering Pines in Chappaqua. If you are not local and wish to purchase them please contact me.
My first book recommendation this month is by one of my favorite author/illustrators, Lynn Curlee. His latest Notre-Dame: The World’s Cathedral (Atheneum Books for Young Readers) is simply stunning. This fascinating visual history of the cherished cathedral highlights the burning and reconstruction.  Chock-full of quotes and captivating information on gothic architecture, French history and restoration, it’s perfect for middle grade readers and fans of Paris of all ages.

As we start to see more bees buzzing around our gardens, The Dog Who Saved the Bees written by Stephanie Gibeault and illustrated by David Hohn(Sleeping Bear Press) is a great read. A heartwarming and unique story about an overworked beehive investigator who seeks a detection dog to protect bees from a deadly disease. Can an unruly and lonely dog be trained to meet the challenge? See how Cybil Preston and Mack team up to save the bees.

Excited to be joining the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival again this year on September 26, 2026. Join me and the other children’s book creators for a fun-filled day of books and more!

 

 

APRIL 2026

Dear Friends,

Looking forward to celebrating National First Ladies Day on April 25 with my JACKIE AND THE BOOKS SHE LOVED book signing at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua–noon to 2pm. Proprietor Mark Kramer will share memorabilia from John F. Kennedy’s inauguration. Guests will be served Susan Lawrence’s Jacqueline Cake inspired by Jackie and JFK’s wedding cake that was also served at his inauguration. I hope to see you there.

“Finding Your Joy” is an inspiring theme for National Library Week(April 19-26, 2026.) Explore and discover what sparks joy in your library. Celebrate your library and the library staff who work hard to put beautiful books in your hands and joy in your heart.

To celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd, I highly recommend JUST ONE OAKwritten by Maria Gianferrari and illustrated by Diana Sudyka(Beach Lane Books) debuting on April 7, 2026.  Explore the oak tree in this beautifully illustrated picture book that is chocked bull of ecological facts. The lyrical text and refrain of “just one oak” is sure to delight readers of all ages.
And just for lots of fun check out I’M BUSY(Simon & Schuster, 2026) by Michael Ian Black and illustrated by Debbie Ridpath Ohi, the 5th in The New York Times bestselling series. See how friends–a potato and a flamingo–help a girl tackle what feels like an overwhelmingly busy life. Delightfully illustrated.

And please mark your calendar for the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival on Saturday, September 26, 2026. I’ll be there with lots of wonderful authors and illustrators!

MARCH 2026

What better way to start Women’s History Month than planning to attend the 3rd annual National First Ladies Day celebration book signing of JACKIE AND THE BOOKS SHE LOVED on Saturday, April 25 from noon to 2PM at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua, New York. Proprietor Mark Kramer will have memorabilia from John F. Kennedy’s inauguration on display and we will be serving their Jacqueline Cake that is like the cake served at John F. Kennedy’s inauguration and Jackie and JFK’s wedding. I hope to see you there.

New for Women’s History Month 2026 is From the Field to the Fight: How Jessica Govea Thorbourne Organized for Justice, written by Angela Quezada Padron and illustrated by Sol Salinas(Atheneum) on sale March 24.  It’s a powerful story of a young Latina girl who made a difference standing up for justice and learning to organize for change. A timely and inspiring picture book biography of a determined Jessica who worked hard to bring attention to the plight of immigrant farmworkers. For more titles for Women’s History month visit my Pragmatic Mom blog post Picture Book Biographies for Women’s History Month.

My cover story for the March/April issue of Inside Chappaqua magazine, The Joy of Dance in New Castle highlights the health benefits of dance from Ballroom to Belly Dance!

And in my Portraits & Profiles columns in this issue I ask about secret super powers. Check out what these folks had to say. Do you have a secret super power? Reply to this email with a description and you’ll be entered to win a signed copy of JACKIE AND THE BOOKS SHE LOVED.

Looking forward to another book signing at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua for the National First Ladies Day Book signing, Saturday, April 25h from noon-2PM.

JANUARY 2026

Happy New Year 2026, a year to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday. I’m excited to announce the 3rd annual National First Ladies Day celebration book signing of JACKIE AND THE BOOKS SHE LOVED on Saturday, April 25 from noon to 2PM at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua, New York. Proprietor Mark Kramer will have memorabilia from John F. Kennedy’s inauguration on display and we will be serving their Jacqueline Cake that is like the cake served at the inauguration and Jackie and JFK’s wedding. I hope to see you there.

The American Library Youth Media awards will be announced Monday, January 26 at 10AM CT from Chicago. While those awards are a important, there are so many other wonderful children’s books that were published in 2025 worth sharing with young people. I have talked about several in the past year. Here are a few more that I think are just great.

Every Monday Mabel by Jashar Awan is a big favorite of mine and many think it will be the Caldecott Medal winner for the best picture book. Precocious Mabel wakes up early Monday mornings. Her mission is to see what in her eyes is the best thing in the world, the garbage truck. This book is a tribute to our community helpers. Kids will want to read it again and again.
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I love Liz Garton Scanlon’s Bibsy Cross books young readers. The last in the series, Bibsy Cross and the Time Capsule, illustrated by Dung Ho  is great fun. Bibsy is a spunky eight year old. These beautifully written books in the series are sweet, funny, and full of heart with delightful illustrations.
A great new nonfiction picture book in time for the 250th birthday celebration of our country is Hiding in Plain Sight: Kate Warne and the Race to Save Abraham Lincoln written by Beth Anderson and illustrated by Sally Wren Comport.  Abraham Lincoln was my favorite president growing up. This is an engaging story about Kate Warne, America’s first female detective. Brave and talented, she had a secret role in our country’s history on her first mission. Fascinating facts and information at the back of the book.

In Poppy news, apparently the meteorologists at WNBC in New York think she is a prime incentive for folks to tag them on Instagram. You can follow both of us on Instagram @Poppy10514 and @RonniDiamondstein. And be sure to look for Poppy’s Picks with her paws-i-tively woofing good book reviews!

 

 

DECEMBER 2025

Congratulations to Lisa Rogers and Angie Quantrell the winners of the Jackie and the Books She Loved giveaway celebrating the second anniversary of publication. Jackie and the Books She Loved is a great gift for people of all ages.

A first for me. It was an honor to be asked by Michael Croland to write a blurb for his forthcoming book Poems by First Ladies: The First-Ever Anthology(Dover Publications) due out on January 13, 2026.  Delighted to see that my thoughts got top billing.

Gifts were the topic for my latest Portraits & Profiles column in Inside Presspublications.

This month I’m excited to recommend a fun dog story, Frenchies High and Low: A Woofing and Wagging Book of Opposites written by Stephanie Calmenson and illustrated by Hollie Hibbert. It’s a delightful concept book that introduces opposites with a fun, colorful art, and adorable dogs. It’s available on January 13, 2026 but can be pre-ordered now.

On the topic of pups, Poppy now has an Instagram account. You can follow her at @poppy10514 to see what she is up to, plus her reading recommendations.
      Wishing you much joy and peace in the new year.

OCTOBER 2025

Another great day at the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival on Saturday, September 27. Loved meeting new readers and visits from colleagues and old and new friends.

 
Meet my new puppy Poppy, an abstract red toy poodle. She’s following in Maggie Mae’s paw-steps and now has a page on my website–POPPY’S PLACE. Poppy has already started reviewing books with POPPY’S PICKS. You can find her first reviews on her page and on my social media.

Poppy
©Ronni Diamondstein

A fun new picture book recommendation just in time for Halloween and Christmas. Candy Corn Christmas by Jonathan Fenske, the Geisel Award winning author and illustrator. A rollicking rhyming book about the often misunderstood and underrated Halloween candy corn that finds its way to Christmas. It’s a sweet story about finding your place.

I’m excited to announce a book giveaway to celebrate the second birthday of Jackie and the Books She Loved on November 7th. To win a signed copy reply to this email. You can also enter by visiting my social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky and X.

AUGUST 2025

Maggie Mae, my dear sweet pup reporter, passed away on June 28th. She was 17 years and 8 months old. She was a dog to love. Thanks to Inside Chappaqua and Stroll Chappaqua for publishing remembrances of her.
You can read some of Inside Chappaqua Maggie Mae Pup Reporter columns on the Maggie Mae’s Corner page of my website.

Stroll Chappaqua, August 2025
In memory of Maggie Mae donations would be greatly appreciated and can be made to the SPCA Westchester. Maggie Mae wrote about them in two of her columns.
Wicked and Wicked: For Good fans will love the two picture books I am recommending this month. Spotlight on Ariana Grande and Spotlight on Cynthia Erivo both written by Elizabeth Dennis and Hunter M. Green and illustrated by Ruth Burrows(Simon Spotlight, 2025) debut on September 23. Find out what makes Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo shine in the spotlight and the inspiration that they give in these two motivational and biographical books that will be enjoyed by fans of the movies and people of all ages. Beautifully written and cheerfully illustrated.
    
Back to school and back to books! Jackie and the Books She Loved is a great book for teachers to use to launch Readers’ Workshop and Writers’ Workshop. See the fun follow-up activities on my website on the  EXTRAS page.
I’m looking forward to the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival on Saturday, September 27 10AM-4PM. I’ll be there with169 authors and illustrators Fun activities for kids, food trucks and more. Hope to see you there.

 

JULY 2025

Happy Birthday Jackie! July 28th would be the 96th birthday of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. We served her favorite birthday cake, a yellow cake with chocolate frosting, at my first book signing at Susan Lawrence in November 2023. You can find the recipe in the book Cooking for Madam: Recipes and Reminiscences from the Home of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis by Marta Sgubin and Nancy Nicholas. Bats Langley added an illustration of the cake in our book Jackie and the Books She Loved. A great summer read, available wherever books are sold. Signed copies can be found at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua.

I have two great new books to recommend that you can pre-order now. Woody’s Words: Woodrow Wilson Rawls and Where the Red Fern Growswritten by Lisa Rogers and illustrated by Susan Reagan debuts on September 16, 2025. Do you love Where the Red Fern Grows? Then you will love learning about Rawls and his love of dogs and his passion for writing in this fascinating nonfiction book. Written from the heart, Rogers gets to the heart of this poignant story of perseverance and love.
And how fun is Sujean Rim’s latest picture book, My Dog Smudge? A sweet story about a lovely little girl and her dog who doesn’t bark. Readers will have fun discovering that the language of love of dogs and their persons is unspoken. Rim’s illustrations are perfect in this engaging, interactive flap book. This heartwarming book debuts on September 16, 2025.
Mark your calendar for the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival on Saturday, September 27 10AM-4PM. I’ll be there with169 authors and illustrators including both Lisa Rogers and Sujean Rim. Fun activities for kids, food trucks and more. Hope to see you there.

MAY 2025

Happy Children’s Book Week!


Every week should be children’s book week!

Celebrating National First Ladies Day on April 26th with a book signing of Jackie and the Books She Loved at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua was great fun. So happy to see friends–old and new–and young readers. Thanks to Mark Kramer and Carmine Derrico for their gracious hospitality. The Jacqueline cake was a big hit.


Photos by Randi Childs
My book recommendation this month is very special. Where Are You, Brontë?is the most touching book about love, loss and the remembrance of a beloved pet. Written by Tomie DePaola–his final completed manuscript–and beautifully Illustrated by the award-winning Barbara McClintock, it is a must read, must have.

Barbara McClintock in her studio with Where Are You, Brontë?
photo courtesy of Barbara McClintock

My other writing includes my column Portraits & Profiles with artist Naava Katz in Inside Press magazine publications. The question in the latest issue is “What is the best advice you ever received?” See what four community members had to say.

Mark your calendar for the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival, Saturday, September 27th. I’ll be signing copies of Jackie and the Books She Loved.  Excited to be there again this year.

New! Not only do they have signed copies, but now you can get personalized signed copies of Jackie and the Books She Loved at Susan Lawrence. Just call and ask for Carmine (914-238-8833.) He can arrange this for you!

APRIL 2025

Spring is finally here and so much is happening in April. April is School Library Media Month and next week is National Library Week. I love the American Library Association’s theme for National Library Week this year. As a librarian I can relate to it. I hope all of you will support your local and school libraries. More important now than ever.

April is National Poetry Month and I am delighted to share the loveliest new poetry book for children, If I Could Choose A Best Day: Poems of Possibilities, selected by Irene Latham and Charles Waters and illustrated by Olivia Sua. The poets each began their poem with the word “if” and imagined the possibilities that the gift of “if” could hold. Perfect for poetry month.

Delighted to be celebrating National First Ladies Day this year with a book signing of Jackie and the Books She Loved at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua on Saturday, April 26th from noon to 2pm. Guests will be treated to Jackie’s famous wedding cake that was served at JFK’s inaugural balls in 1961. Memorabilia from John F. Kennedy’s inauguration will be on display courtesy of proprietor Mark Kramer. Please join us!

While I prefer to support local book stores and small businesses, Amazon has a big sale of Jackie and the Books She Loved. If you can’t make the book signing and want a copy, I’m happy to send you a signed bookplate. Just let me know.


Maggie Mae is reading JACKIE for National First Ladies Day.
Looking forward to the book signing at Susan Lawrence!

MARCH 2025

March is Women’s History Month and I couldn’t be prouder of my book about icon and fabulous First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Jackie and the Books She Loved.  I’m delighted that the book is accessible online as an ebook available at your public library on Hoopla. And you can listen to me read the book on the KidLit TV Read Out Loud.

I love recommending books. Two new books on fascinating women recently debuted.
Joan Mitchell Paints a Symphony written by Lisa Rogers and illustrated by Stacy Innerst is a gorgeous book about the abstract expressionist artist’s work La Grande Vallée Suite.  Lyrically written, it is a richly colorful picture-book biography.

Pedal Pusher: How One Woman’s Bicycle Adventure Helped Change the World written by Mary Boone and illustrated by Lisa Anchin is an absorbing picture book that shows how Annie used ingenuity and grit to complete the journey around the world on a bicycle.

As you all know I love dogs, especially my girl Maggie Mae who changed my life. I was happy to contribute this article Unleashing Wellness with Dog Ownership about how dogs are good for your health in the latest issues of the Inside Press magazines.

       
I’m looking forward to celebrating National First Ladies Day on Saturday, April 26th from noon to 2pm at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua. Memorabilia from JFK’s 1961 inauguration will be on display and we will be treating guests to the Jacqueline Cake inspired by Jackie and JFK’s wedding cake that was also served at his inauguration.

Happy reading!

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025

Seventeen years ago this January Maggie Mae came to live with me. You can read about her on her page on my website, Maggie Mae’s Corner. We were so thrilled that she was featured in a local magazine Stroll Chappaqua this month.

Recommending beautiful books is in my DNA as a retired school librarian and author. Just out in January is Dragon Dreams written by my dear friend Roni Schotter and illustrated by Khoa Le. An imaginative nighttime story that dragon lovers will adore. With sparkly and dreamy illustrations that complement the lovely and lyrical writing.

Looking ahead to Black History Month I’d like to share a new book that is perfect. A Voice of Hope: The Myrlie Evers-Williams Story written by Nadia Salomon and illustrated by London Ladd is the story of a woman who had an integral role in the Civil Rights movement. With bold illustrations, Salomon’s lyrical prose make this a fascinating read.

One of the best things I have done in my writing journey has been to join the 12 X 12 Picture Book Challenge. It’s a great community of writers and professional development for writers of all levels of their career. If you are an aspiring picture book writer or illustrator, I can’t recommend it enough. Registration ends February 28th.
Just signed a stack of Jackie and the Books She Loved at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua. And copies are available wherever books are sold. Check my website. I’m happy to send you signed book plates.

DECEMBER 2024

I’m so delighted to announce my collaboration with award winning Julie Gribble and KidLit TV. My Read Out Loud of Jackie and the Books She Loved premiered December 14th. It was great fun to work with them. Parents, teachers, and librarians, KidLit TV is a great resource.  I hope you enjoy listening to this.

The Small Business Saturday book signing at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua was a great success. So grateful for the hospitality of proprietor Mark Kramer and his staff. Signed copies of Jackie and the Books She Loved can be purchased there. Please visit my website for the local book stores that can send them to you. https://ronnidiamondstein.com/books/jackie-and-the-books-she-loved/.

One of my favorite new picture books is In Praise of Mystery by poet laureate Ada Limón and illustrated by Hans Christian Andersen Medal winner Peter Sís. Poems are perfect picture books. This poem will be engraved on NASA’s Europa Clipper spacecraft on a mission to study Jupiter’s second moon. Sís’s luminous and ethereal illustrations are a superb match for Limón’s beguiling and exquisite verse. A must have.

Check out my website for other book recommendations and follow up activities for Jackie and the Books She Loved.Enjoy the holidays. Wishing you much joy and peace in the new year.

NOVEMBER 2024

With Thanksgiving just a week away I want to let you know how grateful I am for all of you and your support for Jackie and the Books She Loved.  As President John F. Kennedy said:

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”

I’m looking forward to my Small Business Saturday Book Signing on Saturday, November 30th at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua from noon to 2PM. Celebrating one year of Jackie and the Books She Loved with Jackie’s very delicious wedding cake. My gratitude to host Mark Kramer and his amazing staff.  The book is a great gift for people of all ages and it’s the perfect teacher gift. If you can’t make it, signed copies are always available at Susan Lawrence and if you are out of town I can send you a signed bookplate. Also, personalized signed copies are available. Please visit my website for the local stores that can send them to you. https://ronnidiamondstein.com/books/jackie-and-the-books-she-loved/

Wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving.

OCTOBER 2024

We’re two weeks away from the one-year anniversary of the publication date of Jackie and the Book Loved, November 7th! So much has happened in the past year and there is more to come. Thanks to all of you for your support and enthusiasm for the book. It means the world to me.

To celebrate the anniversary, join me at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua for a book signing on Saturday, November 30 from noon to 2pm. Guests will sample their delicious Jacqueline cake that is like Jackie’s wedding cake that was also served at JFK’s inauguration in 1963.  It’s a perfect time to do some holiday shopping of signed copies of the book.

The Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival at the end of September was great fun. Loved seeing former students with their little ones, colleagues, friends from near and far, and meeting new readers including a two year old history buff.

A big highlight for me is Maggie Mae celebrating her 17th birthday on October 20th. Last month she was invited to write for Inside Press again. Check out my website for Maggie Mae Pup Reporter’s interview of me.
 

I love reading new picture books and I’m excited to share a great one that Maggie Mae received from our friend, author Stephanie Calmenson, Oodles of Poodles and Doodles: A Woofing, Wagging Book of Colors. It’s a super fun concept book. If you love poodles you will adore this whimsical, lyrical book. The illustrations are delightful in this book about dogs and color. Perfect for young readers and dog lovers of all ages.

Looking forward to the book signing at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua for small business Saturday, November 30th from noon-2PM. If you can’t make it and want signed copies you can contact The Village Bookstore  , Scattered Books or I am happy to send you signed bookplates.

SEPTEMBER 2024

Fall always means the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival. I’m excited to be attending again this year. Join me and the other 160 authors/illustrators on Saturday, September 28 from 10AM to 4PM at the Chappaqua Train Station. I’ll be signing copies of Jackie and the Books She Loved in the courtyard.
So thrilled with the great review of Jackie and the Books She Loved inKirkus Magazine. It’s one of the best Indie reviews in the September 15, 2024 issue.

“The author, a school library media specialist and teacher, uses age-appropriate language to introduce early readers to a captivating female historical figure and handles delicate themes with care.”

“An enlightening and visually superb bookshelf addition.”

“Diamondstein celebrates Jacqueline ‘Jackie’ Bouvier Kennedy Onassis and her lifelong love of reading in this debut illustrated children’s book.”

“History fans and book lovers of all ages will adore this.”

These are some of the highlights. You can read the entire review here.

Back to school and back to books! Jackie and the Books She Loved is a great book for teachers to use to launch Readers’ Workshop and Writers’ Workshop. See the fun follow-up activities on my website on the EXTRASpage.I was delighted to talk to Gina Soldano on her podcast “Getting to the Heart of Why We Write.” I talked about my writing journey, new children’s books I like and baking brownies! You can listen here.

My other writing includes my column Portraits & Profiles with artist Naava Katz in Inside Chappaqua magazine publications. The question this fall is “What book from your childhood had a strong impact on you?” See what four community members had to say.
Looking forward to another book signing at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua for small business Saturday, November 30th from noon-2PM. Just is time for holiday shopping.

JULY 2024

This Sunday, July 28th would be Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’s 95th birthday. In honor of her birthday I’m offering a giveaway of two signed copies of Jackie and the Books She Loved. Look for my posts on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky and X. Not on social media? Reply to this email by July 31st.
Looking for some great picture books to read? Check out my recommendations for my top three favorite books of 2023 on Shepherd.com.
Mark your calendar for September 28th.  I’ll be at the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival with 160+ other authors and illustrators.
Stock up now for holiday gifts now. Special deal on Amazon for JACKIE AND THE BOOKS SHE LOVED.  https://tinyurl.com/65cufuhs I’ll send you signed bookplates.

JUNE 2024

Dear Friends,

The National First Ladies Day celebration at Susan Lawrence on Saturday April 27th was a huge success. Proprietor Mark Kramer displayed memorabilia from John F. Kennedy’s 1961 inauguration and served guests the Jacqueline Cake that was created by Mark who was inspired by the Jackie and JFK’s wedding cake that was also served at Kennedy’s inaugural balls. It was well attended by folks from near and far and I hope to make this an annual event. Susan Lawrence continues to have signed copies available for purchase.

 

July 28th would be Jackie’s 95th birthday. I’ll be doing a giveaway of a signed copy of Jackie and the Books She Loved. Look for my posts on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Bluesky and X. Not on social media? Reply to this email to be entered in the drawing.

June is Pride Month and I’d like to share a new book that I just had the pleasure of previewing, Rainbow Allies: The True Story of the Kids Who Stood Up Against Hate, by Nancy Churnin. Based on real-life events, Rainbow Allies tells the story of how a Massachusetts neighborhood rallied around a lesbian couple to make them feel welcomed and loved again after an act of hate. The book debuts on July 9, 2024.

Creating Summer Reading lists was something I enjoyed as a school library media specialist. Former First Lady Laura Bush has a fun Summer Reading List with some oldies but goodies. https://tinyurl.com/mrxfrjhu
A great family read aloud is one of my all-time favorites, Dominic by William Steig.Mark your calendar for September 28th.  I’ll be at the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival with 154 other authors and illustrators including the beloved author of If You Give A Mouse A Cookie Laura Numeroff.

APRIL 2024

Mark your calendar for my next book signing of Jackie and the Books She Loved to celebrate National First Ladies Day on Saturday, April 27th noon to 2:00PM at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua.  Guests will be treated to Jackie’s famous wedding cake that was served at JFK’s inaugural balls in 1961.

April is Poetry Month! Jackie loved poetry and wrote poems as child. Here’s one that appears in Jackie and the Books She Loved with the permission of her daughter, Ambassador Caroline Kennedy.

In 2001, Caroline Kennedy created a beautiful poetry anthology in the book The Best Loved Poems of JACQUELINE KENNEDY ONASSIS. In the introduction she writes “One of the greatest gifts my brother and I received from my mother was a love of literature and language.” Then Ambassador Kennedy went on to compile two books for young people: Poems to Learn by Heart and A Family of Poems: My Favorite Poetry for Children.  Ambassador Kennedy follows in the footsteps of her mother who instilled this love of reading and poetry in her children.

In honor of poetry month my friend and fellow author Lisa Rogers and I are offering a book giveaway. Look for this post on social media to enter to win signed copies of our books.

Lisa Rogers is a wonderful writer. Check out her latest book Beautiful Noise: The Music of John Cage. It’s a unique picture book biography that recently won the 2024 Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators Golden Kite Honor Award in the Nonfiction Text for Younger Readers. You can visit her at www.lisarogerswrites.com
As we wind down in the school year, Jackie and the Books She Loved is a wonderful end of the year teacher gift.  Signed copies are available at The Village Bookstore in Pleasantville, NY, Books of Wonder in NYC and Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua, NY Jackie and the Books She Loved can be purchased wherever books are sold, and I am happy to send you signed bookplates.

MARCH 2024

Happy Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day! A great time to celebrate Jackie and the Books She Loved.  I was honored to be interviewed by TQ Townsend and her nine-year-old daughter co-host Chloë on The Children’s Literature Podcast. You can listen to the interview here.


https://tinyurl.com/5kdwz68v

You can find my Women’s History Month Blogpost on the Pragmatic Mom website. I review ten new picture book biographies about fabulous women role models. There is a giveaway of a signed copy of Jackie and the Books She Loved.

https://tinyurl.com/3v393ve5

On World Read Aloud Day, February 7th, I had the pleasure of reading Jackie and the Books She Loved to fourth graders at the North Jackson Elementary School in Talmo, Georgia and the Middletown Elementary School in Frederick, Maryland. The kids had great questions!

Channeling my inner Jackie Bouvier with a new feature in Inside Chappaquamagazine and Inside Press publications. Jackie was the inquiring camera girl for the Washington Times Herald. I teamed up with artist Naava Katz for this fabulous new feature.

https://tinyurl.com/2s5aymaw

Mark your calendar for my next book signing to celebrate National First Ladies Day on Saturday, April 27th at Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua. There will be cake!

JANUARY 2024

I am excited to share the wonderful review of Jackie and the Books She Loved that appeared in the January issue of Westchester Magazine. You can read it here.  And I was honored to appear on the Literacy Landscape podcast recently. To see all the podcasts, blog interviews, and television and print media interviews go to my NEWS page where you’ll find links to everything.

In honor of Presidents Day, my friend Lisa Rogers and I will be doing a book giveaway in February. Look for this post on social media beginning February 15.

I love seeing pictures of young readers with Jackie and the Books She Loved. Please send me yours.

There are lots of ways to enjoy Jackie and the Books She Loved after reading. Follow up activities for kids can be found on my EXTRAS page.

Signed copies of Jackie and the Books She Loved are available at Books of Wonder in NYC and Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua. Books may be purchased wherever books are sold and I am happy to send you signed bookplates.

Jackie and the Books She Loved is getting great reviews on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Goodreads. Please consider adding yours!

Stay tuned for more events to come in 2024.

DECEMBER 2023

Launching Jackie and the Books She Loved in November was quite an adventure. I am grateful to everyone who joined the online launch, the National First Ladies Library Legacy Lecture, Books of Wonder event and to those who came to the book signing at Susan Lawrence. It was great to meet and greet friends and neighbors. And I appreciate all of you who pre-ordered and ordered. Your support means the world to me!


Photos by Randi Childs
Susan Lawrence Book Signing, November 25, 2023
And there was cake!
Thanks to proprietor Mark Kramer and staff for their hospitality.

It was also a whirlwind of podcasts, blog interviews and television and print media interviews. Here is link to my NEWS page where you’ll find links to everything.  There will be more to come in 2024.

I love seeing pictures of young readers with Jackie and the Books She Loved. Please send me yours.

Photo courtesy of Debbie Jiran

There are lots of ways to enjoy Jackie and the Books She Loved after reading. Follow up activities for kids can be found on my EXTRAS page.

As you think about gifts in 2024, signed copies of the book are available at Books of Wonder in NYC and Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua. Jackie and the Books She Loved can be purchased wherever books are sold and I am happy to send you signed bookplates.
Jackie and the Books She Loved is getting great reviews on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Goodreads. Please consider adding yours!

I wish you and yours all good things in the new year.

NOVEMBER 2023

Happy Thanksgiving! I am so thankful for all of you and the great reception that Jackie and the Books She Loved is receiving.

Jackie and the Books She Loved had a great launch on November  7th!

Many thanks to the Children’s Librarians at the Chappaqua Library for hosting my Jackie and the Books She Loved launch on November 9. It was a great conversation with Robbin Friedman, Head of the Children’s Room with thoughtful questions from the online viewers. The librarians created a great craft project. Thanks to Friends of Miller House and Skyhorse Publishing for co-sponsoring.

Photo by Naava Katz
If you missed it, you can watch it here:
I’ve been very busy on a blog tour and doing interviews. You can find all of them on the NEWS page of my website. https://ronnidiamondstein.com/news/
Coming up is the JACKIE AND THE BOOKS SHE LOVED BOOK SIGNING CELEBRATION
Saturday, November 25, 2023, noon to 2PM.
Susan Lawrence Gourmet Catering, 26 North Greeley Avenue, Chappaqua, NYJackie and the Books She Loved makes a great teacher gift and holiday gift for people of all ages!If you’ve ordered book online I am happy to send you personalized signed bookplates. If you wish to order signed copies of Jackie and the Books She Loved. Please visit my website for the local stores that can send them to you. https://ronnidiamondstein.com/books/jackie-and-the-books-she-loved/

OCTOBER 2023

Jackie and the Books She Loved’s book birthday is two weeks away on Tuesday, November 7th!

A great time was had at the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival on September 30th. Despite the rainy start to the day both the illustrator Bats Langley and I sold out of all our copies. Nearly 100!

 
Photo by Vicky Tipp

Here’s one of our very happy readers that we joined me at the book festival. That’s what it’s all about.

Photo by Oscar Flores

 You can pre-order the book now! http://tinyurl.com/bdfjwps7

Lots of events are planned for November when the book debuts on Tuesday, November 7th.

JACKIE AND THE BOOKS SHE LOVED BOOK LAUNCH
Cosponsored by the Chappaqua Library, Friends of the Miller House and Skyhorse Publishing Thursday, November 9, 2023, at 7:00PM.
Attendees can pick up a related activity kit at the library ahead of time or just log on for a reading of the book and a short Q&A. Every registrant is entered into a raffle for a signed copy of the book! Free registration:  http://tinyurl.com/4wfxktjs

Legacy Lecture: Jackie and the Books She Loved, Penning a Jackie Kennedy Picture Book
Thursday, November 16 at noon.
I’ll be reading Jackie and the Books She Loved and discuss how the book came to be and the remarkable literary life of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the First Lady of Literature. Free tickets are available now. http://tinyurl.com/bdhtbedz

JACKIE AND THE BOOKS SHE LOVED BOOK SIGNING CELEBRATION
Saturday, November 25, 2023, noon to 2PM.
Susan Lawrence Gourmet Catering, 26 North Greeley Avenue, Chappaqua, NY

I will keep you posted on the details of all events in these newsletters, on my website, and social media.

SEPTEMBER 2023

September is a special month in the life of Jackie. September 12th marks the 70th anniversary of the wedding of Jackie and John F. Kennedy. They married in Newport, Rhode Island at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church with a reception at Hammersmith Farm.

September is a special month for me! I’ll be signing early release copies of Jackie and the Books She Loved at the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival on Saturday, September 30th from 10AM-4PM. You can find me in the central courtyard area.   As a former board member of the festival, I’m thrilled to participate this year. It’s a fun event with lots of authors, illustrators, and fun activities. You can find me in the central courtyard area.  https://ccbfestival.org

Can’t make it to the book festival, then you can for pre-order the book now! http://tinyurl.com/bdfjwps7

Thrilled to share some early press for Jackie and the Books She Loved in Inside Chappaqua magazine feature.

photo by Donna Muller

http://tinyurl.com/3tnaxpk3

 
Lots of events are planned for November when the book debuts on Tuesday, November 7th.
 
JACKIE AND THE BOOKS SHE LOVED BOOK LAUNCH
 Cosponsored by the Chappaqua Library, Friends of the Miller House and Skyhorse Publishing Thursday, November 9, 2023, at 7:00PM. 
Attendees can pick up a related activity kit at the library ahead of time or just log on for a reading of the book and a short Q&A. Free registration:  http://tinyurl.com/4wfxktjs
 
Legacy Lecture: Jackie and the Books She Loved, Penning a Jackie Kennedy Picture Book
Thursday, November 16 at noon. 
I’ll be reading Jackie and the Books She Loved and discuss how the book came to be and the remarkable literary life of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the First Lady of Literature. Free tickets are available now. http://tinyurl.com/bdhtbedz
 
JACKIE AND THE BOOKS SHE LOVED BOOK SIGNING CELEBRATION
 Saturday, November 25, 2023, noon to 2PM. 
Susan Lawrence in Chappaqua, NY
 
I will keep you posted on the details of all events in these newsletters, on my website and social media.

 

JULY 2023

Happy Birthday Jackie!

It’s July 28th, Jackie’s birthday and I’m excited to announce a special event I have planned with the National First Ladies Library in Canton, Ohio on Thursday November 16, 2023 at noon EST.  I was delighted when I was contacted by NFLL in April. Currently they have an exhibit about Jackie that runs through April 2024. The program will be online. Free tickets are available beginning September 8. I’ll be reading Jackie and the Books She Loved and discuss how the book came to be and the remarkable literary life of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the First Lady of Literature.

Legacy Lecture: Jackie and the Books She Loved, Penning a Jackie Kennedy Picture Book

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/legacy-lecture-jackie-and-the-books-she-loved-penning-a-picture-book-tickets-675262156287

I’m also thrilled to share some of Bats Langley’s fabulous art from the Jackie and the Books She Loved with you.  Jackie at work as an editor on Martha’s Vineyard…

You can for pre-order the book now. https://ronnidiamondstein.com/books/jackie-and-the-books-she-loved/
Here’s more advance praise from award-winning author Nancy Churnin:

“How lovely to learn that a love of books was the constant that guided little Jackie Bouvier as she grew up to become America’s beloved First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy! Ronni Diamondstein’s lyrical text, enhanced by Bats Langley’s charming illustrations, will get children thinking about how books can help enrich their lives, too.”

Mark your calendar for my online launch on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at 7:00PM and a book signing in Chappaqua on Saturday, November 25, 2023. More details to follow.

And I’ll be at the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival on Saturday, September 30th! As a former board member of the festival, I’m thrilled to participate this year. I will keep you posted on the details in these newsletters, on my website and social media.

 

JUNE 2023

Seventy-one years ago on June 2, 1953 Jackie was in London covering the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. You’ll learn more about what else Jackie was doing in Europe in my book Jackie and the Books She Loved. It’s available for pre-ordernow. https://ronnidiamondstein.com/books/jackie-and-the-books-she-loved/

I’m excited to let you know that the book has gone to the printer.  I’m so pleased with the final product and can’t wait for you to see it and hold it in your hands!

Here’s more advance praise for the book from award-winning author Jennifer Berne:

“Ronni Diamondstein’s story of Jackie Kennedy and her lifelong passion for reading

is a beautifully-told ode to books and how they enrich our lives. Written about a

book lover by a book lover. Illustrated with warmth and wonderful detail.”

I’m planning an online launch on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at 7:00PM and a book signing Chappaqua on Saturday, November 25, 2023. And I’ll be at the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival on Saturday, September 30th! As one of the founders of the festival and former board member I’m thrilled to participate this year. I will keep you posted on the details in these newsletters, on my website and social media.

 

MAY 2023

Today, the last Saturday of April, is National First Ladies Day. It’s a day that honors all First Ladies of the United States and commemorates the founding of the First Lady upon President George Washington’s inauguration on April 30,1789 when Martha Washington became First Lady of the United States that day. She, and all those who followed in her footsteps, have played an important role in molding our nation including and especially, Jacqueline Kennedy.

I was a child when Jacqueline Kennedy became the First Lady of the United States. She did so much to change the White House and the role of the First Lady. She hosted many cultural events at the White House, among them a romantic evening of Elizabethan poetry and music and invited one of her high school English teachers who had inspired her. You’ll learn more about her love of poetry in my book Jackie and the Books She Loved. It’s available for pre-order now. https://ronnidiamondstein.com/books/jackie-and-the-books-she-loved/

I’m excited to let you know that the book will be going to the printer soon! The charming illustrations by Bats Langley complement the text so well. Here’s a sample of the lovely art inside the book on the title page.

I’m planning an online launch and book signing in the fall. I will keep you posted on the details in these newsletters, on my website and social media.

I’d like to close with some advance praise for the book. Peter Sís, award-winning author and illustrator and recipient of the Hans Christian Andersen Award whose book The Three Golden Keys was edited by Jackie  wrote:

“When I worked on my picture book with Ms. Onassis she was a wonderful editor who worked like an invisible whisperer from the background. I think it would delight her that children can find out how much she cared for books…”

APRIL 2023

April is Poetry Month, so I’d like to suggest some great books to share with people of all ages.
Poetry was a true love of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the subject of my forthcoming book Jackie and the Books She Loved.

In 2001, Caroline Kennedy created a beautiful poetry anthology in the book The Best Loved Poems of JACQUELINE KENNEDY ONASSIS. In the introduction she writes “One of the greatest gifts my brother and I received from my mother was a love of literature and language.”

Then Ambassador Kennedy went on to compile two books for young people:Poems to Learn by Heart, and A Family of Poems: My Favorite Poetry for Children.

Ambassador Kennedy follows in the footsteps of her mother who instilled this love of reading and poetry in her children.  And I was so honored to have her give me permission to include one of Jackie’s poems in my book.

You’ll learn more about Jackie’s love of language, literature, and poetry in my book Jackie and the Books She Loved. It’s available to preorder now!