Coming to PALC on March 17, 2025

Author, Journalist, Speaker

“The King of Diamonds”

“The Search For The Elusive Texas Jewel Thief”

Rena Pederson is an award-winning journalist, accomplished TED speaker, and author of five books.  During her career, she has interviewed newsmakers, ranging from Margaret Thatcher to Fidel Castro and Jane Goodall as well as five U.S. presidents.  She served on the Pulitzer Prize Board for nine years.  As Vice President and editorial page editor at the Dallas Morning News, she received national recognition.  During that time Texas Monthly described Pederson as one of the most powerful women in Texas.  Pederson also served as a senior speechwriter and advisor for strategic communications at the U.S. Department of State.  Her first book What’s Next? was featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show, and her book, The Burma Spring was featured on the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books and the Texas Book Festival. Her new book, “The King of Diamonds,” has been described in reviews as “riveting,” “pure gold,” “a tour-de force,” and “a must-read for any true crime buff.”