Touched by the Sun: My Friendship with Jackie

Carly Simon's memoir chronicles her unlikely friendship with Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, which began at a Martha's Vineyard party in the 1980s. The book takes its title from Simon's song of the same name, written for Onassis and released on her 1994 album Letters Never Sent. The narrative follows their relationship as it evolved from a chance meeting to a deep friendship, with Onassis later becoming Simon's editor for several children's books. Simon reveals the private moments and conversations that defined their connection, presenting a view of Jackie O that few have witnessed. The memoir illuminates the contrast between public perception and private reality, exploring how two women from different worlds formed an authentic bond. Beyond its biographical elements, the book examines themes of friendship, vulnerability, and the unexpected connections that shape our lives.

Readers note this is more about Carly Simon than Jackie Kennedy Onassis, with many feeling misled by the title and marketing. The friendship comes across as occasional rather than intimate. Readers appreciated: - Details about Jackie's wit and humor - Behind-the-scenes glimpses of Jackie as an editor - Simon's honesty about her own insecurities - Stories about their shared experiences on Martha's Vineyard Common criticisms: - Too much focus on Simon's personal life and struggles - Limited new insights about Jackie - Name-dropping and tangential celebrity anecdotes - Superficial treatment of the friendship Ratings: Goodreads: 3.5/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 3.9/5 (1,100+ ratings) "Expected more depth about Jackie but got a Carly Simon memoir instead," notes one Amazon reviewer. A Goodreads reader comments: "The friendship feels peripheral - like they were friendly acquaintances rather than close friends."

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🌟 The song "Touched by the Sun" was not only written for Jackie but was performed at her memorial service in 1994 🌟 Jackie Onassis worked as an editor at Viking Press and later Doubleday, where she edited several of Carly Simon's children's books 🌟 Both women shared a deep connection to Martha's Vineyard - Jackie owned a 340-acre property called Red Gate Farm, while Simon has lived on the island since the early 1970s 🌟 Carly Simon waited 25 years after Jackie's death before publishing this memoir, honoring her friend's renowned desire for privacy 🌟 While their friendship blossomed, Jackie helped Carly overcome her severe stage fright and anxiety, often giving her practical advice about public appearances