From her bookstore in Nashville, Ann Patchett drives the literary conversation. At 62, the prize-winning novelist and owner of Parnassus Books is known for her generosity in promoting other authors and supporting emerging writers. Her new novel, 'Whistler,' is a story of improbable meetings and deepening bonds, reflecting her belief in the goodness of people.
A Literary Force in Nashville
Patchett, who received a National Humanities Medal in 2021, has seen her books translated into over 20 languages. Yet she remains rooted in Nashville, where she lives with her husband, physician Karl VanDevender. At her 4,800-square-foot store, she meets with staff and customers, including Tom Hanks, and fosters a community of book lovers.
The New Novel: 'Whistler'
'Whistler,' out Tuesday, follows Daphne Fuller and her husband as they reconnect with Eddie Triplett, an elderly man who was briefly her stepfather. The novel explores themes of decency and benevolence, inspired by Patchett's own experiences. 'The people that I interact with every single day are good people,' she says. 'It is vanishingly rare when I meet someone who’s not nice.'
Recognition and Service
PEN America honored Patchett with its Literary Service Award, citing her efforts to get books into underserved communities and support emerging writers. Her memoir 'Truth & Beauty' remembered her friend Lucy Grealy, and 'These Precious Days' honored Sooki Raphael. 'Whistler' is dedicated to her friend Jim Fox, who inspired the character Eddie.
A Lifelong Love of Stories
Patchett, a graduate of Sarah Lawrence College and the Iowa Writers' Workshop, began telling stories before she could read. Her debut novel, 'The Patron Saint of Liars,' was published before she turned 30. She has since written nine other works of fiction, four nonfiction books, and three picture books.
From Author to Bookseller
In 2010, after two Nashville stores closed, Patchett and business partner Karen Hayes opened Parnassus Books. The store's success mirrors a resurgence in independent bookselling. Author Emma Straub, who opened her own store, says Patchett inspired her: 'She’s my hero. I wanted to hear inspiration.'
