The author of The Dutch House, an internationally bestselling book that won the Women's Prize, presents an enticing collection of essays and memoir. Every narrative has a beginning and an end. Ann Patchett is a writer, thus she is aware of how her stories will turn out. However, life frequently takes unexpected turns. As she considers family, friendship, marriage, failure, success, and the meaning of it all, Patchett muses about this. Including topics that are more intimate, such as her portrayal of the three men she considers to be her fathers and how a chance encounter with Tom Hanks resulted in one of her most meaningful friendships; How to respond to the sublime when someone asks you why you don't have kids, the surprising impact of Snoopy, the value of knitting, and the joy to be found