WHAT NOW?

Ann Patchett's gift for insightful reflection is beautifully framed in this recording of thoughts she gathered to deliver as a graduation speech at her alma mater, Sarah Lawrence College. Her thoughts are presented through charming vignettes. In her delivery her soft Southern voice is tinged with gentle humor as she recounts honest but endearing struggles, always returning to the ongoing question: "What now?" She shares humble events such as being lost in an airport and trying to produce a batch of homemade cookies. Without a shade of preachiness, she illuminates the lessons that can be found in such everyday experiences. Patchett's wit is kind but literate, sympathetic without being saccharine. This recording is a gem resonant with lasting ideas. R.F. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2008]