Ann Patchett is an American author known for her novels, essays, and memoirs. Born on December 2, 1963, in Los Angeles, California, she has received numerous awards for her writing, including the Pen/Faulkner Award and the Orange Prize for Fiction. Her works often explore themes of family, love, and the complexities of human relationships. Patchett is also the co-owner of Parnassus Books, an independent bookstore in Nashville, Tennessee. Some of her most notable books include Bel Canto, State of Wonder, and Commonwealth. In addition to her fiction, she has written essays for various publications, showcasing her versatility as a writer.