Book Review: Jackie by Dawn Tripp
Every once in a while, a book comes along that promises to whisk you away into the life of an icon, offering not just historical insight but a deeply personal journey. Jackie by Dawn Tripp did just that for me. I was drawn in by the aura surrounding Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis—not just a First Lady, but a woman who navigated the tumultuous waters of her era with grace and resilience. When Doris Kearns Goodwin remarked that "culturally something happened between her and the decade that she lived in," it resonated with me, setting high expectations for this novel. The moment I got the approval from NetGalley to read this book, my anticipation skyrocketed.
Tripp beautifully captures Jackie’s narrative, allowing us to walk alongside her from her dreams and aspirations to her heart-wrenching life after November 22, 1963. The writing reads like an intimate diary, pulling you into Jackie’s thoughts and emotions as she grapples with love, politics, and personal identity—a feat that keeps the reader turning pages late into the night.
One of the standout aspects of the book is the depth of Jackie’s character. Through lines like, “You were not my kind of adventure. Too American. Too good-looking. Too boy,” we see her internal conflict and desire for individuality amid the weight of her marriage to John F. Kennedy. Tripp paints an evocative picture of a woman torn between public expectation and personal longing, and it was fascinating to witness her undeniable strength. It’s a portrayal that made me fall in love with Jackie all over again—not just as JFK’s wife, but as a woman with her own dreams and aspirations.
The historical context adds an extra layer of richness, as we learn about the pressures JFK faced during his presidency, including interactions with monumental figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. Conversations about JFK’s affairs, including the infamous connection with Marilyn Monroe, give us a glimpse into the complexities of Jackie’s marriage—her heartache layered against the backdrop of a political landscape filled with monumental challenges.
Tripp’s writing style is striking; her ability to juxtapose soft, lyrical passages with moments of raw emotion is nothing short of skillful. I found myself highlighting various quotes, such as “The world is alive to me because of you,” as they resonated deeply, reflecting the bond Jackie shared with JFK.
The shift in tone after JFK’s assassination is palpable. I struggled to hold back tears as I witnessed Jackie’s transformation from First Lady to a resilient woman carving out a new identity. The poignancy in how she navigated this tragedy was beautifully rendered, showcasing both vulnerability and strength.
Overall, Jackie is a compelling read that captures not just a moment in history, but the essence of a woman who symbolized so much more. Whether you’re a fan of historical fiction or simply looking for a beautifully crafted story, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. It’s an experience that will invoke a spectrum of emotions and connect you with an iconic figure’s life journey.
I can’t wait to explore more of Dawn Tripp’s work, as this enchanting dive into Jackie’s world has left me eager for what else she has to offer. ✨
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