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This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage

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This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage

By: Ann Patchett
Narrated by: Ann Patchett
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Blending literature and memoir, Ann Patchett, author of State of Wonder and Bel Canto examines her deepest commitments: to writing, family, friends, dogs, books, and her husband in This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage. Together, these essays, previously published in The Atlantic, Harper, Vogue, and The Washington Post, form a resonant portrait of a life lived with loyalty and with love.

This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage takes us into the very real world of Ann Patchett's life. Stretching from her childhood to the present day, from a disastrous early marriage to a later happy one, it covers a multitude of topics, including relationships with family and friends, and charts the hard work and joy of writing, and the unexpected thrill of opening a bookstore.

As she shares stories of the people, places, ideals, and art to which she has remained indelibly committed, Ann Patchett brings into focus the large experiences and small moments that have shaped her as a daughter, wife, and writer.

©2013 Ann Patchett (P)2013 HarperCollinsPublishers Essays Marriage Nonfiction Heartfelt Happiness Inspiring Funny Witty Erotic Thriller

Critic reviews

"Readable and candid, Patchett’s collection is a joyful celebration of life, love and the written word." (Kirkus Reviews)

"Reading Patchett is like spending time with a deeply perceptive longtime pal, or a new friend that one instantly connects with." (USA Today)

"[A] sparkling collection." (The New Yorker)

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Personal Essays • Engaging Storytelling • Authentic Narration • Insightful Author • Heartfelt Reflections
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This is a great book of essays with very personal themes and much discussion of the author's relationships with family and friends. I had high expectations when this book of essays was recently published and I was not disappointed. The author's narration personalizes the entire book. I felt like she was speaking directly to me. This was further accentuated by the personal nature of the topics, strengthening the rapport between reader and author.

I would imagine these essays would interest even those readers unfamiliar with her novels, but for readers who are already fans these essays are particularly relevant since she discusses her craft and her working habits as well as her shift from the short story to the novel. For example, in one essay she talks about reading her manuscripts entirely out loud to a colleague before they are published. That will not surprise listeners to this audiobook since it is clear that her skills have been honed by much practice - she is a wonderful narrator.

I have been a fan of Ann Patchett for many years, and greatly appreciated the title essay of this collection when it was offered to Audible subscribers a few years ago. I also had experienced her narrating skills in her non-fiction book about her friendship with Lucy Grealy, TRUTH AND BEAUTY. I usually don't appreciate author-narrators but when they have such great skills they can really add to the personal essay read aloud - another example of this talent is Jonathan Franzen.

This book was a treat from beginning to end - everything about this collection was delightful and made me want more. I highly recommend it to essay fans, Patchett fans and those interested in the craft of writing.

Great Reading, Great Writer!

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I've read many of Ann Patchett's novels but had not read her nonfiction. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

fabulous

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This is my most recent favorites of Ann Patchett's books. I have a dog like Rose in my life. And she touches me in the same way. I can relate and I can grow from every page of this book. Thank you Ann for sharing these many parts of yourself and life. From fathers to floods to fears through failures and faith.

Tender Real outstanding

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I have loved many novels by Ann Patchett and purchased this audiobook as a Daily Deal without realizing it was a collection of shorter works, autobiographical essays that I loved hearing. An unexpected treasure trove of stories - thank you, Audible!

Wonderful essays and stories read by the author

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She is extraordinary. Each chapter is a separate passage of work from a different relived experience in Ann’s life. All wrapped up perfectly with a luxurious bow.

Ann Patchett’s genius storytelling

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I savored every line of every story. I am grateful that Ann is willing and so able to share the meaningful and entertaining stories of her life. They felt authentic and sometimes raw. I laughed and cried throughout. And I just ordered the 2006 collection of short stories she edited! I’ll probably listen again… now.

Storytelling at its best.

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One of the best books I've ever read. Ann Patchett is the ultimate storyteller and her narration is excellent. The stories left me breathless, each one better than the last. I love this book.

Outstanding

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As a fan of Ann Patchet's fiction I surprisingly found the essays in this book truly compelling. Though the title may be somewhat misleading (the chapter of the same title actually being about marriage) her writing about writing, dogs, family and friends is thoughtful. interesting and entertaining. Her "voice" as a writer and as a reader are equally excellent.

Even Better Than Her Fiction

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Great read if you love Ann Patchett books, wish she would narrate more of her books

Loved the author telling the story

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What did you love best about This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage?

So many well-told tales! Non-fiction, collected writings from the many publications which supported the author as she nurtured her fiction writing career. What treat to hear so many rich experiences. Loved the tale of her Parnassus (independent) Book Store in Nashville!

Have you listened to any of Ann Patchett’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Have listened to some of her fiction, and this compares quite favorably.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

To write an account of the process of becoming an officer in the LAPD, Ann worked through the steps to qualify to enroll in the Los Angeles Police Academy. Her father, a retired LAPD officer, gave her a home-base and encouragement during the rigorous days of testing of her moral character, and her intellectual and physical abilities.

Wonderful, Author-narrated stories

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