Parnassus Bookstore: Your Nashville Home For Independent Reading & Author Events
There's a special kind of magic that happens when you step into a really good bookstore, isn't there? It's almost like the pages themselves whisper stories as you walk by, and that, in a way, is exactly what you feel at Parnassus Bookstore. This beloved spot in Nashville, Tennessee, is more than just a place to buy books; it's a true gathering place for anyone who loves stories and the independent spirit that comes with them. It’s where you find your next favorite read, meet authors, and just generally feel at home among fellow book lovers.
This wonderful independent bookstore, Parnassus Bookstore, first opened its doors in 2011. It was started by the well-known novelist Ann Patchett and her business partner, Karen Hayes. You know, it's pretty cool when an author herself helps create a space like this, and it really shows in the thoughtful way the shop is run. It’s a very welcoming spot for book people of all kinds.
Parnassus Bookstore is located right in the Green Hills neighborhood of Nashville, Tennessee. It’s been serving the community there for quite some time now, offering a hub for literary activity. Ann Patchett actually took over as the sole owner in the summer of 2022 after Karen retired, so she's really putting her own touch on things, which is pretty neat. This place is, essentially, an independent bookstore for independent people, a motto they live by every day.
Table of Contents
- About Parnassus Bookstore: A Nashville Literary Gem
- The People Behind the Pages: Meet the Parnassus Team
- Engaging Events and Community Happenings
- Finding Your Next Great Read: Recommendations and Signed Books
- Ann Patchett's Role and the Store's Ethos
- Frequently Asked Questions About Parnassus Bookstore
- Visit Parnassus Bookstore Today
About Parnassus Bookstore: A Nashville Literary Gem
Parnassus Bookstore is, you know, a true independent bookstore, and it's found its home right in Nashville, Tennessee. It’s situated in the Green Hills neighborhood, which is a pretty nice spot for a community-focused shop. The whole idea behind Parnassus was to create a place where people who love books could really connect, and they’ve done a great job of that since 2011. It’s more than just a shop; it’s a spot where stories come to life, really.
The shop first opened its doors thanks to the vision of novelist Ann Patchett and her business partner, Karen Hayes. They had this idea to create a bookstore that felt different, a place that truly served "independent people." And, in a way, they absolutely succeeded. Karen retired in the summer of 2022, and Ann took over as the sole owner, so it's very much her project now. This continuity means the store keeps its unique feel, which is quite important to its regulars.
From the moment it started, Parnassus Bookstore has aimed to be a central spot for literary activity in Nashville. It’s not just about selling books; it’s about fostering a love for reading and bringing people together. They’ve really worked hard to make it a welcoming place where you can spend time, browse, and just enjoy being surrounded by books. It's a very special kind of place, you know, for anyone who enjoys a good story.
The People Behind the Pages: Meet the Parnassus Team
One of the things that makes Parnassus Bookstore so special is the group of booksellers who work there. They are, quite simply, people who love reading, and that passion really shines through. You know, they’re particularly fond of children’s literature, and you can often find their fantastic recommendations on the store’s blog, "Musing," every single month. It’s clear they put a lot of thought into what they suggest, which is pretty helpful for parents and kids alike.
There's also Kathy Schultenover, who is a very important person for the Parnassus book clubs. She coordinates both the Parnassus Book Club and the Parnassus Classics Club. Kathy, in fact, used to be an English teacher, and she’s been leading book groups for over forty years. That’s a lot of experience, and her groups are, you know, very well-regarded. People really enjoy her guidance and insights, which makes the book club experience quite enriching.
These booksellers and staff members are the heart of Parnassus. They create the warm, inviting atmosphere that makes people want to return again and again. Their genuine love for books and their willingness to help you find just the right story really sets the store apart. It’s like having a friendly guide through the vast world of literature, which is pretty great, honestly.
Engaging Events and Community Happenings
Parnassus Bookstore is well-known for its lively schedule of author events, which are a big part of what makes it a hub for literary activity. For example, they are pleased to welcome Kandi Steiner to celebrate the new editions of her books, "The Wrong Game" and "The Right Player." This is a free event, and it will take place right in the store on a Thursday. Events like these really bring authors and readers together, which is something special.
They also have wonderful events for younger readers, like "Storytime with Kim Howard, author of Do Mommies Ever Sleep." This particular storytime is set for Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 6:30 PM, right there in the store. It’s a great chance for kids and parents to hear a story read by the author herself. These kinds of events are, you know, very important for fostering a love of reading from a young age.
If you happen to miss one of their author events, not to worry! Parnassus often has signed copies available afterward. You can find links to the most current lists of signed books they have in the store on their website. While they update that page frequently, it’s always a good idea to give them a call to confirm availability before you head over, just to be sure. This service is, frankly, a fantastic way to get a special edition of a book you love.
Parnassus is also thrilled to be participating in Independent Bookstore Day 2024. This is a day of celebration for independent bookstores across the country, and Parnassus plans a lineup of author appearances and special offerings. It’s a day to really appreciate these unique places and the role they play in our communities. You know, supporting independent bookstores like Parnassus helps keep literary culture alive and well.
Beyond author visits, Parnassus also features "The Laydown Diaries," a weekly series that highlights new books. This series features Ann Patchett herself along with a crew of their booksellers, giving you a peek at what’s fresh and exciting in the literary world. It’s a really fun way to discover new titles, and you get to hear from the people who know books best. This is, in a way, like having your own personal book recommendation service.
The bookstore also hosts various literary figures for events, showcasing a wide range of genres and interests. Past or upcoming guests include authors like Olivie Blake, Kelley Armstrong, Katherine Arden, Hannah Nicole Maehrer, Tasha Suri, Melissa Marr, Megan Bannen, A.G. Wise, Kelly Andrew, and Kamilah Cole. This diverse lineup means there’s usually something for everyone, whether you’re into fantasy, romance, or literary fiction. It’s quite a treat to have such a variety of voices come through the store.
Finding Your Next Great Read: Recommendations and Signed Books
When you walk into Parnassus Bookstore, you’re not just looking at shelves of books; you’re looking at a carefully chosen collection. The booksellers, as I was saying, are passionate readers themselves, and their recommendations are a big part of the store’s charm. They really do love reading children’s literature, and their fantastic recommendations appear every month on their blog, "Musing." This means you can trust that the books they suggest are genuinely good reads, which is pretty helpful.
Beyond personalized suggestions, Parnassus also makes it easy to find new releases. They regularly feature "This week's new books," often tying into their weekly series, "The Laydown Diaries." This means you can always stay up-to-date on what's fresh and exciting in the book world. It’s a very simple way to keep your reading list full of current titles, and you get a sense of what's buzzing in the literary scene.
And for those who love a special touch, Parnassus Bookstore excels at offering signed copies. If you missed an author event, or if an author you admire has visited, you can often find their signed books still available in the store. They work hard to keep their list of available signed books updated on their website, so you can check before you visit. However, it’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm that the specific signed stock you’re looking for is still there, just to be absolutely sure. This service is, frankly, a fantastic perk for collectors and avid readers alike.
Ann Patchett's Role and the Store's Ethos
Novelist Ann Patchett is, you know, a central figure at Parnassus Bookstore. She co-opened the shop in 2011 with Karen Hayes, and she took over as the sole owner in the summer of 2022 after Karen’s retirement. Her involvement means the store has a very clear literary direction and a strong commitment to books. She’s not just a figurehead; she’s actively involved, and her passion for books really shapes the store’s identity.
It’s important to understand Ann’s specific role, though. While she’s the owner and a celebrated author, she has a very clear policy regarding her personal literary work at the store. She does not accept ARCs (advance reader copies), blurb requests, publishing requests, or other similar inquiries at Parnassus. This policy helps maintain the store’s focus on its customers and its mission as a bookseller, rather than as a literary agency. It’s a pretty clear boundary, and it helps keep things running smoothly.
Also, any materials sent to Parnassus become the property of Parnassus and will not be returned. This is a standard policy for many businesses, and it helps them manage the volume of items they receive. The store’s core mission is to be an independent bookstore for independent people, and this ethos guides everything they do. It’s about fostering a community around books and reading, which is, essentially, what they do best.
Frequently Asked Questions About Parnassus Bookstore
Where is Parnassus Bookstore located?
Parnassus Bookstore is located in Nashville, Tennessee, specifically within the Green Hills neighborhood. It’s a very convenient spot for many people in the area to visit, and it’s become a real landmark for book lovers there, you know. You can find it easily, and it’s a welcoming place once you arrive.
Who owns Parnassus Bookstore?
Parnassus Bookstore was originally opened by novelist Ann Patchett and her business partner, Karen Hayes, in 2011. Ann Patchett took over as the sole owner in the summer of 2022 after Karen retired. So, it's Ann Patchett who is the current sole owner, which is pretty neat for a bookstore, really.
Can I get signed books at Parnassus Bookstore?
Yes, you absolutely can often get signed books at Parnassus Bookstore! If you happen to miss an author event, they frequently have signed copies available afterward. They keep a list of signed books they have in stock updated on their website. It’s always a good idea to call them to confirm availability before you head over, just to be sure, you know.
Visit Parnassus Bookstore Today
Parnassus Bookstore is, you know, truly a special place for anyone who loves books and community. It’s an independent bookstore for independent people, and that spirit is felt in every corner of the shop. From the carefully chosen books to the welcoming staff and the exciting author events, there’s always something new to discover. It’s a spot where you can really connect with stories and the people who love them, which is pretty wonderful.
Whether you’re looking for a new release, a classic, or just a quiet place to browse, Parnassus offers a unique experience. They have a great group of booksellers who love reading, especially children’s literature, and they offer fantastic recommendations. You can find out more about Parnassus Bookstore on our site, and check out their blog, "Musing," for monthly recommendations and news. It's a very easy way to stay in touch with what's happening there.
So, why not plan a visit? You can explore their selection, perhaps catch an author event, or join one of their popular book clubs led by Kathy Schultenover. It’s a place that celebrates reading in all its forms. You can find more information about independent bookstores and their importance at the American Booksellers Association website. And for details on upcoming happenings, link to this page here. They are always happy to help you find your next great read, which is, frankly, what a good bookstore is all about.
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