Summary:
The Best Loved Poems of Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis is a collection of poetry compiled by Caroline Kennedy, daughter of the former First Lady. This book features a variety of poems that resonated with Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis, showcasing her love for literature and her refined taste. Through this collection, readers can gain insight into the First Lady’s personal interests and her deep appreciation for the written word.
Book Genre:
Poetry anthology
Main Topic:
This book is an ode to Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis and her love for poetry. It offers a glimpse into her life and personality through her favorite poems.
Key Ideas:
– A tribute to Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis and her passion for poetry.
– A diverse collection of poems that reflect her refined taste.
– A reflection of the First Lady’s personal interests and her literary influences.
Main Parts and Summary:
– Introduction: The book begins with a heartfelt introduction by Caroline Kennedy, who speaks about the importance of poetry in her mother’s life, and how it shaped her own love for literature and the English language.
– Part One: This section includes poems that were recited at events or selected by Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis to reflect a particular moment or occasion. It also features the iconic poem “Ithaka” by C.P. Cavafy which she often recited to her children.
– Part Two: The second section delves into the First Lady’s favorite love poems, including pieces by Elizabeth Barrett Browning, W.B. Yeats, and Emily Dickinson. These poems showcase the romantic and sensitive side of Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis.
– Part Three: The final section is a mixture of poems chosen by the First Lady for their beauty and significance in her own life. It includes works by Walt Whitman, William Shakespeare, and other well-known poets.
Key Takeaways:
– Gain insight into the personal interests and literary influences of Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis.
– Explore a plethora of poetry ranging from love to nature and other themes, handpicked by the former First Lady.
– Discover the literary connections between Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis and renowned poets through her favorite selections.
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
Caroline Kennedy is the daughter of the former First Lady, Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis, and former President John F. Kennedy. She is a best-selling author, attorney, and diplomat. Known for her love for literature and writing, she has previously published a collection of poems entitled “The Best Loved Poems of Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis” and “Poems to Learn by Heart.”
Target Audience:
This book is ideal for readers who appreciate poetry, especially those who admire Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis. It can also appeal to anyone interested in learning more about the former First Lady and her literary interests.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
The Best Loved Poems of Jacqueline Kennedy-Onassis is published by Hyperion and was first released in 2001. The most recent edition, with added poems selected by Caroline Kennedy, was published in 2017.