The Book Case: "Ann Patchett Reads AND Writes" – Episode Summary

Release Date: November 14, 2024
Hosts: Charlie Gibson and Kate Gibson
Guest: Ann Patchett, renowned author and owner of Parnassus Books

Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Book Case, hosts Charlie and Kate Gibson delve deep into the literary world with famed author Ann Patchett. The primary focus is Patchett's groundbreaking project: an annotated edition of her acclaimed novel, Bel Canto. This edition offers readers unique insights into her creative process, making it a valuable resource for both writers and avid readers.

Ann Patchett on Annotating Bel Canto

The conversation begins with Charlie expressing admiration for Patchett's ambitious endeavor:

Charlie Gibson [01:31]: "We should remind you that Ann Patchett has gone back and done something that we don't think any modern author has done."

Patchett had revisited her novel Bel Canto twenty-four years after its original publication, providing extensive annotations in the margins. These annotations reveal her thoughts on the book’s structure, character development, and stylistic choices. Patchett reflects on her strengths and areas for improvement in the novel:

Ann Patchett [03:33]: "I did very well on the macro and very poorly on the micro, if you were scoring the test. So the structure of the book, the idea, the concept of the novel is really fantastic... But the little things. The writing is actually really bad, and I think there are seven commas in the entire book."

Patchett emphasizes the educational value of this annotated edition:

Charlie Gibson [06:05]: "It's a wonderful learning lesson for not only readers but for other writers."

Kate adds that the annotated version serves as a "masterclass in reading," enhancing critical analysis skills even when engaging with a beloved text:

Kate [02:39]: "It's a masterclass in reading as well."

Rapid-Fire Questions with Ann Patchett

The episode transitions into a lively rapid-fire segment, uncovering personal preferences and insights from Patchett:

• Current Reads:

  Ann Patchett [10:41]: "I am reading Elizabeth Strout's Abide with Me,... and I'm listening to Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons... and Brideshead Revisited done by Jeremy Irons."

• Book Recommendation for New Readers:

  Ann Patchett [12:04]: "If it was somebody who was going to read one Ann Patchett book in their life, I would say Commonwealth."

• Languages Spoken:

  Ann Patchett [12:52]: "1."

• Advice to Younger Self:

  Ann Patchett [13:19]: "Read out loud. Read out loud... You will catch your mistakes if you hear them, not if you see them."

• Celebrating Book Completions:

  Ann Patchett [13:43]: "There is no done... I just try to celebrate every single day."

Discussion with Kat Bach, Manager of Parnassus Books

Following Patchett's insights, the hosts engage with Kat Bach, the manager of Parnassus Books, which is owned by Ann Patchett. Kat provides a unique perspective on handling the annotated edition of Bel Canto, balancing her roles as a bookstore manager and a reader:

Kat Bach [17:54]: "There are certain things that are unique about it... tourists come to us straight from the airport... and we get to say, here's her books. They're all signed. Do you want to get one personalized?"

Kat highlights the bookstore's role in fostering a community of readers and the joy derived from staff recommendations:

Kat Bach [21:05]: "We have a section at the front of the store for anyone who hasn't been in, and most bookstores do staff recommendations... There's a huge sense of accomplishment and community."

She also discusses what sets Parnassus Books apart, notably its status as an institution owned by a prominent author and its appeal to both locals and tourists.

Conclusion and Future Episodes

As the episode wraps up, Charlie and Kate reflect on the enriching discussions with Ann Patchett and Kat Bach. They tease the next episode featuring Irish author Niall Williams, whose upcoming book promises to be a heartfelt addition to the series.

Kate [25:22]: "Pull up a cup of coffee and join us for a nice warm chat with a great Irish storyteller."

The hosts express gratitude to Ann Patchett for her participation and encourage other authors to undertake similar reflective projects.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Ann Patchett on Writing Process:

  "I found it so emotionally wrenching. It is tender, without any irony, no guile. It's loving, it's gentle, and then it's horrifying." [03:33]

• Kate on Critical Reading:

  "I think it really teaches you... how to be a more critical reader and still enjoy what you're reading." [02:39]

• Kat Bach on Bookstore Community:

  "It's a huge sense of accomplishment and community." [21:05]

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Book Case offers a profound exploration of Ann Patchett's literary craftsmanship and the innovative approach of annotating one's own work. Through insightful conversations, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the intertwining processes of writing, reading, and bookselling, all underscored by the passion of those who live and breathe literature.