Ann Patchett is known for her sweeping literary tales. Her most recent, "Tom Lake," was a pivotal moment in one mother's life, told for her daughters.
Most recently, the New York Times bestseller and Pulitzer Prize finalist is coming out with a children's book. "The Verts" is a story of introverts and extroverts, seen through the eyes of kids.
"The Verts" by Ann Patchett
Patchett said on TODAY with Hoda & Jenna she's "high functioning introvert."
"I'm an introvert who knows how to show up," Patchett said of herself. The book was partially inspired by her stepdaughter, who is "such an introvert," she said, and her husband, who is an extrovert.
Beyond children's books, the writer — who also owns Parnassus Books in Nashville, Tennessee — shared three of her non-fiction picks to pick up in the autumn of 2024.
More of Ann's picks
"Kingdom of the Poor" by Charles Strobel
Patchett recommended this memoir by her friend, the late Charles Strobel, a Catholic priest who started a homeless shelter in Nashville.
"This is a manual for how to be a decent person," Patchett said. "It's really such a beautiful and important book."
"That Librarian: The Fight Against Book Banning in America" by Amanda Jones
Small town librarian Amanda Jones' sobering read is about the reality of book banning in the U.S. "Librarians in elementary schools are under attack. These people are just serving their communities, loving children and recommending books," Patchett said.
"The Backyard Bird Chronicles" by Amy Tan
The author of "The Joy Luck Club" shows off her many talents by drawing all of the birds in this book, a guide to appreciating the nature all around you. "What she writes and what she draws is amazing," Patchett said.