Quick Take

The instant New York Times bestseller - Named one of the ten best books of 2019 by People magazineA chance encounter at a summer party on Martha's Vineyard blossomed into an improbable but enduring friendship. Carly Simon and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis made an unlikely pair--Carly, a free and artistic spirit still reeling from her recent divorce, searching for meaning, new love, and an anchor; and Jackie, one of the most celebrated, meticulous, unknowable women in American history.Nonetheless, over the next decade their lives merged in inextricable and complex ways, and they forged a connection deeper than either could ever have foreseen. The time they spent together--lingering lunches and creative collaborations, nights out on the town and movie dates--brought a welcome lightness and comfort to their days, but their conversations often veered into more profound territory as they helped each other navigate the shifting waters of life lived, publicly, in the wake of great love and great loss.An intimate, vulnerable, and insightful portrait of the bond that grew between two iconic and starkly different American women, Carly Simon's Touched by the Sun is a chronicle, in loving detail, of the late friendship she and Jackie shared. It is a meditation on the ways someone can unexpectedly enter our lives and change its course, as well as a celebration of kinship in all its many forms.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Touched by the Sun: My Friendship with Jackie

Introduction

"Touched by the Sun: My Friendship with Jackie" by Carly Simon is a captivating memoir that explores the unexpected and enriching bond between two iconic American women. Simon, a celebrated singer-songwriter, shares her personal experiences and insights into her friendship with Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. This book offers a unique perspective on the power of friendship, the complexities of public life, and the enduring impact of shared experiences.

About Carly Simon

Carly Simon, the author of "Touched by the Sun," is an accomplished singer-songwriter and musician. She has won numerous awards, including an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and two Grammy Awards. Simon's music career spans decades, and she has made significant contributions to the world of music. Her lyrical prowess and artistic talent have earned her a place in the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Analysis of Views

The Power of Friendship: Readers appreciate the deep and meaningful friendship between Simon and Kennedy. They find it inspiring to see how two seemingly different individuals can connect on a profound level, creating a bond that transcends their differences. The book highlights the importance of having supportive and understanding friends who can help navigate life's challenges.
The Non-Linear Narrative: Simon's decision to present the story in a non-linear fashion is met with mixed reactions. Some readers find it engaging and enjoy the gradual reveal of their friendship. Others prefer a more linear narrative, feeling that it disrupts the flow of the story. However, overall, readers appreciate the unique approach to storytelling.
A Celebration of Kindred Souls: Simon's ability to capture the essence of their friendship is praised by readers. They find it heartwarming to witness the growth and transformation that occurs between two individuals as they share their stories and experiences. The book serves as a testament to the power of connection and understanding.
A Balance of Public and Private Life: Readers appreciate Simon's balanced approach to sharing details about Kennedy's life. While she respects Kennedy's privacy, Simon provides enough insight into their shared experiences to create a compelling narrative. The book strikes a delicate balance between honoring Kennedy's privacy and offering readers a glimpse into her life.
A Tribute to Jackie Kennedy: The book is seen as a tribute to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, paying homage to her legacy and impact on American history. Readers appreciate Simon's admiration for Kennedy and her ability to capture her essence through their friendship. The book serves as a reminder of Kennedy's grace, intelligence, and resilience in the face of tragedy.

Reasons for Recommendation

Inspiring Friendship: "Touched by the Sun" offers an inspiring portrayal of friendship that resonates with readers. The bond between Simon and Kennedy serves as a reminder of the importance of genuine connections in our lives. The book encourages readers to cherish their friendships and seek out meaningful relationships.
Unique Storytelling Approach: Simon's non-linear narrative adds depth and intrigue to the story. It allows readers to experience the progression of their friendship alongside Simon, creating a sense of intimacy and connection. The unconventional storytelling approach sets this book apart from traditional memoirs and captures readers' attention.
Celebration of Kindred Souls: The book celebrates the power of kindred spirits and how they can enrich our lives. Simon's ability to capture the essence of their friendship highlights the importance of shared experiences and understanding in forging deep connections. Readers find solace in knowing they are not alone in their struggles and can find comfort in friendships that bring light into their lives.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Privacy Respect: Some readers feel that Simon disregards Jackie Kennedy's privacy by sharing personal details about her life. They believe that she should have been more respectful of Kennedy's privacy, especially given her reputation for protecting her personal space. This aspect detracts from the overall enjoyment of the book for some readers.
Overemphasis on Personal Struggles: While readers appreciate Simon's vulnerability in sharing her own struggles, some feel that she overshares personal details about her life. They believe that the focus on Simon's own challenges detracts from exploring Kennedy's life more deeply. Readers who prefer biographies focused on specific individuals may find this aspect less appealing.

Conclusion

"Touched by the Sun: My Friendship with Jackie" by Carly Simon is a deeply personal memoir that explores the unexpected bond between two iconic American women. Through its unique storytelling approach and exploration of friendship, this book resonates with readers on various levels. While some readers appreciate its celebration of kindred spirits and unconventional narrative style, others feel that it lacks respect for privacy and overemphasizes personal struggles. Ultimately, "Touched by the Sun" offers a compelling account of friendship, shedding light on the power of connection and understanding in our lives.