Ann Patchett, author of State of Wonder, Run, and Bel Canto, examines her deepest commitments -- to writing, family, friends, dogs, books, and her husband -- creating a resonant portrait of her life.

Nonfiction, an introduction -- How to read a Christmas story -- The getaway car : a practical memoir about writing and life -- The sacrament of divorce -- The Paris match -- This dog's life -- The best seat in the house -- My road to Hell was paved -- Tennessee -- On responsibility -- The wall -- Fact vs. fiction -- My life in sales -- "The love between the two women is not normal" -- The right to read -- Do not disturb -- Introduction to "The Best American Short Stories 2006" -- Love sustained -- The bookstore strikes back -- This is the story of a happy marriage --- Our deluge, drop by drop -- Dog without end -- The mercies.