These Precious Days, by Ann Patchett
33/30 | Started 08.09.22 • Finished 08.19.22 | 5 stars
What a delightful collection of essays to read after our last book club selection! Ann Patchett is truly a wonder of a writer. I just loved this. The standout for me was the title essay, about her surprising friendship with Tom Hanks' assistant, Sooki. I found their relationship to be real and moving in a way that isn't often seen. They are each the kind of friend I would like to be to someone someday.
I was starting to understand what she needed might have been color rather than conversation, breath rather than words.
We will never know all the things other people worry about. She told me how lovely it had been to lay down the burden of her own vigilance.
I also really enjoyed the essay about Kate DiCamillo's books. There's something about someone who is brilliant at their craft enjoying the brilliance of others at that same craft. Patchett can't wait to get these books in the hands of others and her delight is palpable.
When I stopped mindlessly scooping up the things I thought I wanted, I had a better understanding of all the ridiculous things people were trying to sell me...
I'm just about at a loss for words with this one. I highly recommend it, especially to anyone who is a writer, book-lover, or friend.
