These Precious Days: Essays

Written by:
Ann Patchett
Narrated by:
Ann Patchett

Unabridged Audiobook

Ratings
Book
49
Narrator
10
Release Date
November 2021
Duration
11 hours 14 minutes
Summary
The beloved New York Times bestselling author reflects on home, family, friendships and writing in this deeply personal collection of essays.  

'The elegance of Patchett’s prose is seductive and inviting: with Patchett as a guide, readers will really get to grips with the power of struggles, failures, and triumphs alike.' —Publisher's Weekly

“Any story that starts will also end.” As a writer, Ann Patchett knows what the outcome of her fiction will be. Life, however, often takes turns we do not see coming. Patchett ponders this truth in these wise essays that afford a fresh and intimate look into her mind and heart. 

At the center of These Precious Days is the title essay, a surprising and moving meditation on an unexpected friendship that explores “what it means to be seen, to find someone with whom you can be your best and most complete self.” When Patchett chose an early galley of actor and producer Tom Hanks’ short story collection to read one night before bed, she had no idea that this single choice would be life changing. It would introduce her to a remarkable woman—Tom’s brilliant assistant Sooki—with whom she would form a profound bond that held monumental consequences for them both. 

A literary alchemist, Patchett plumbs the depths of her experiences to create gold: engaging and moving pieces that are both self-portrait and landscape, each vibrant with emotion and rich in insight. Turning her writer’s eye on her own experiences, she transforms the private into the universal, providing us all a way to look at our own worlds anew, and reminds how fleeting and enigmatic life can be. 

From the enchantments of Kate DiCamillo’s children’s books (author of The Beatryce Prophecy) to youthful memories of Paris; the cherished life gifts given by her three fathers to the unexpected influence of Charles Schultz’s Snoopy; the expansive vision of Eudora Welty to the importance of knitting, Patchett connects life and art as she illuminates what matters most. Infused with the author’s grace, wit, and warmth, the pieces in These Precious Days resonate deep in the soul, leaving an indelible mark—and demonstrate why Ann Patchett is one of the most celebrated writers of our time.
Reviews
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Sherry B.

I love Pachett’s short stories! The essays about Sookie Raphael are so beautifully developed that I feel I know and love her too! She creates a closeness with Sookie while neglecting to know her intimately! How is that done? The comfort created by her and Karl’s home as a place everyone could only dream of if facing such a life challenge. The Yoga, going on walks, and shrooming were all pivital in their closeness. I also love the essay about Prachett’s dad and how his death was emotionally dealt with. What a beautiful smattering of stories for this first Prachett book for me. I’m so excited to go on a deep dive into Pachett’s collection starting with The Dutch House. Thank you Ann for miraculously awakening the reader into a feeling of connection and deep emotional love.

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Stacie C.

I absolutely love everything Patchett!!!

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Julie S.

I don’t think Ann should have narrated. Her tone is somewhat plodding and turned me off what was probably an ok book.

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