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"The museum hosted a virtual book talk with Debra upon the release of LADIES, FIRST. It was delightful to learn about these amazing women who were unique in that they occupied the position of First Lady; yet, they had this wonderful thread link weaving them together as a group. The book is well-researched, nicely written and beautifully illustrated. What a fun way to learn the history of these amazing First Ladies!"
Bethany Sullivan, Director
James Madison Museum of Orange County Heritage
"The audience was treated to a rich tapestry of insights about the women who have helped shape the course of American history."
Mary Bailey, President
Bayport Blue Point Heritage Association
Upcoming Talks & Craft Fairs
Sunday, October 1, 2023
46th Annual West Islip Country Fair
Stop by and check out my crocheted creations!
October 28, 2023
1:00 p.m.
Seaford Public Library
Unraveling Yarns About the First Ladies
November 20, 2023
6:30 p.m.
Smithtown Public Library
Unraveling Yarns About the First Ladies
March 20, 2024
For Women's History Month
Harborfields Public Library
Unraveling Yarns About the First Ladies
March 30, 2024
Hallockville Museum Farm
Coffee and a Good Book
April 17, 2024
Hutton House Lecture
Long Island University
April 17, 2024
7:30 -- 8:30 p.m.
Great South Bay Quilters
Joyce Fitzpatrick Senior Center, Islip
Unraveling Yarns About the First Ladies
Past Presentations

What People Are Saying...
"I never knew much about first ladies and didn't know I even cared about them. But this presentation has truly sparked my interest. Filled with humor and casual stories of their past, I feel like an insider now and genuinely have an interest and new found respect for these fascinating women. Debra's passion and knowledge is evident from the start, and she draws you into their inner circle. It's such a well-organized and engaging talk, I even told other friends and brought them along a second time." ~ Patricia Hauk
"This author's multimodal presentation on first ladies' common love of needlecraft was both engaging and enlightening. A talented artisan herself, Debra's knowledge and passion for drawing attention to this creative connection is nothing short of remarkable." ~ Jennifer Young
"Standing ovation for author Debra Scala Giokas! This is a thoroughly enjoyable book and an absolute pleasure to read! Once again the author has managed to bring to light the amazing accomplishments of some outstanding women in US history — in this case many of our nation’s exemplary former first ladies. I had the unique pleasure of meeting the author, hearing her speak at a book signing and presentation of her research. She is impressive and formidable in both her ability to research/write and present with humor, conviction and passion so as to bring to life these extraordinary women in an incredibly creative way — knitting, crocheting, quilting — sewing handcrafts. This book will inspire younger audiences as it delights older as well, making it a perfect gift for readers of any age. What an ingenious way to make the telling of history fresh, fun and fanciful!!! If I could give it 10 stars I would, we’ll done Debra, we can’t wait to see what delightful stories and intriguing history come from your pen next, keep it up!!" ~ Joseph Benty
"Debra is a talented writer who entertains and informs with engaging stories about women throughout history and their crafts. Hearing her speak is a delight. I learned a lot and was completely drawn in by the stories. Her books are beautifully written and illustrated. They make great gifts for children of all ages." ~ Nancy Stein
"Debra’s talk was both informative and entertaining. She skillfully related details from the lives and crafting habits of the First Ladies she’d studied, and made long ago history come alive." ~ Cathy Kessler
"Debra shares her passion for needlework and deep respect for our First Ladies. Very engaging and empowering talk." ~ Susan Vahjen
"As youngsters, we were taught about the presidents, and a little about their wives, but Debra has taken this little known subject and elevated it to where it should be in the annals of history. I barely knew their names when I joined Debra's splendid presentation and learned more than I expected. Debra knows everything there is to know about the First Ladies. Our first ladies’ interest in needlework served the country in many different ways and Debra demonstrates that in an enjoyable presentation that leaves you wanting to come back for more." ~ Gina Pirozzi
"Thank you Deb for your outstanding presentation to The Bayport-Blue Point Heritage Association yesterday. You held a packed house spell bound with the detailed stories of our incredible and accomplished First Ladies. Your depth of knowledge and obvious affection and respect are evident in your presentation. That you discovered their “common thread” and wove their unique personalities and family histories all together made a beautiful tapestry and a fascinating afternoon. I hope to hear another future presentation soon. Great job!" ~ Pamela Greene, Bayport NY
“Fabulous, the best Authors Luncheon ever! Debra did such a great job. Bless her for the most terrific authors luncheon AAUW has ever hosted.”
~ Peggy Elliot, member, American Association of University Women
"I thought Debra blended the historical information in her book with her personal information and her comments on the universally satisfying forms of creativity most successfully. I also thought her willingness to chat with her audience before and after her presentation was an excellent and gratifying (to her audience!) addition to the program."
~ Harriet Wolfe, member, American Association of University Women
"I recently attended Ms. Giokas's presentation at Patchogue-Medford Library. She willingly shares her wealth of information on First Ladies from Martha Washington to Barbara Bush who used their needlework skills for self expression and to give back to those around them. Their work has ultimately become a reflection of their time and culture, a valuable gift to history and the American people." ~ Nancy Curran, Long Island Quilts for Kids, a non-profit organization that sews and donates quilts, pillowcases, and so much more to hospitals and those in need on Long Island and beyond.
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