Albion author signs copies of her book for adoring fans

Diane Shiffer is a much loved social media influencer who spreads joy, encourages kindness

Photos by Tom Rivers

ALBION – Diane Shiffer holds a copy of her book, “The Smallest of Joys: How to Create Your Own Magic, Let Your Best Be Enough & Find Contentment Exactly as You Are.” The 248-page book became available in April and has earned rave reviews. On Amazon, it has a 4.9 rating out of 5 from 150 reviewers.

Shiffer has been featured in Forbes magazine, The Buffalo News and interviewed on many other podcasts. She also has been mentioned in The New York Times and is included on best-seller lists.

“Whether you’ve been following Diane for years or are just meeting her now, this book is like a warm teacup in your hands and a soft blanket around your shoulders,” Amazon states in promoting the book. “A modern antidote to hustle culture and self-criticism, it’s a reminder that kindness—especially toward yourself—can be a powerful way to live.”

On Thursday she signed copies of her book at Hoag Library. Shiffer has more than 2 million followers through Instagram and TikTok on social media where she is known as the Cubby Vintage Nana. She spreads messages of kindness and loving others.

Shiffer, 68, is a retired Head Start educator and social worker. She started to go viral on social media during the pandemic in 2020 when she posted short videos of her in daily life – baking, sewing, doing household chores, sharing words about kindness, and showcasing some of her vintage finds, such as potholders.

Shiffer, after her book-signing on Thursday, said she was happy to meet people in person. She appreciates the connection through social media and the positive feedback about her book.

“It is very affirming to see it resonating with people,” she said. I appreciate it so much.”

Diane Shiffer signs a book for Judy Tucker of Albion. Shiffer’s son Noah is sitting next to her.

“She’s positive and she shares her joy,” said Tucker, a retired high school librarian. “She is peaceful and loving.”

Shiffer’s son Noah, 27, is a lineman for RG&E. He was earned his Eagle Scout rank in Albion in Troop 64. He said he is pleased to see so many people with a deep appreciation for his mother.

“She’s always been a phenomenon in my life,” Noah said. “She’s my superhero. People ask is she really that sweet in real life. I tell them she’s even better.”

This photo shows Diane Shiffer signing a book for Lori Laine. Shiffer brought a vintage tablecloth for the book signing.

“She’s so calming,” Laine said. “It’s like sitting and having coffee with your grandma.”

Laine said she has been following Shiffer’s videos for at least two years.

“People want to get back to the basics,” Laine said.

Shiffer signs a copy of her book for Rebecca Schiffer, 39, of Medina, who was excited to meet the author. Schiffer brought her two daughters, Mabel and Harriet, right.

“I have been following her for years,” Schiffer said about Diane. “She is always doing the right thing. She is so inspirational.”

Schiffer said Diane is kind, and also courageous. The author wore a “Black Lives Matter” pin during the book-signing.

“She is incredible and spreads so much joy,” Schiffer said. “She stands up for what she believes in.”

Cindy Albone of Clarendon wanted to meet Shiffer in person and attended the book-signing. Albone sees the power in Shiffer’s message.

“It really is the little things,” Albone said. “Most people are looking for something simpler, rather than the chaos.”