Ann Patchett

Ann Patchett is an acclaimed American author, best known for her literary fiction novels. She was born in Los Angeles, California, but grew up in Nashville, Tennessee, where she currently resides. Patchett is the daughter of novelist Jeanne Ray, and her early education took place at the St. Bernard Academy, a private Catholic school for girls run by the Sisters of Mercy.

After graduating from high school, Patchett attended Sarah Lawrence College, where she studied fiction writing with notable authors such as Allan Gurganus, Russell Banks, and Grace Paley. She further honed her craft at the Iowa Writers' Workshop at the University of Iowa and the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown, Massachusetts. It was during her time at the Fine Arts Work Center that she wrote her first novel, The Patron Saint of Liars.

Patchett's literary career includes writing for various publications such as The New York Times Magazine, Elle, GQ, the Financial Times, The Paris Review, and Vogue. She has written six novels, including Bel Canto, which won the Orange Prize for Fiction in 2002. In addition to her writing, Patchett is also a co-founder of Parnassus Books, a bookstore in Nashville, Tennessee, which she established in 2010 with Karen Hayes. Patchett's contributions to literature have earned her recognition as one of the top 100 most influential people in the world by TIME Magazine in 2012.

In addition to her literary achievements, Patchett is also known for her dedication to promoting literacy and the importance of independent bookstores. She has been a vocal advocate for the importance of books and reading in today's digital age. Patchett's passion for literature is evident in her writing, which has captivated audiences and earned her numerous accolades. Her ability to create compelling characters and engaging storylines has solidified her place as one of America's most talented authors.