The Annie Dillard Reader

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The Annie Dillard Reader is a selection by the author from some of her work. There are many chapters from Pilgrim at Tinker Creek and An American Childhood. Holy the Firm appears in its entirety, and revised. Also included is a new version of a short story first published in 1978 in Harper's, called "The Living." The characters of the original story became the nucleus of the 1992 novel The Living. Finally there are a few poems, old and new, one uncollected essay, and some narratives from her sole book of essays, Teaching a Stone to Talk.

Annie Dillard's Pilgrim at Tinker Creek won the Pulitzer Prize for general nonfiction in 1975. She is the author of eleven other books, including the memoir An American Childhood, the novel The Living, and a volume of found poems Mornings Like This. She has received fellowship grants from the John Simon Guggenheim Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Born in 1945 in Pittsburgh, Dillard attended Hollins College in Virginia. After living for five years in the Pacific Northwest, she returned to the East Coast, where she lives with her husband Robert D. Richardson Jr. and daughter Rosy.

Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 45 votes)
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45 reviews All reviews
July 15,2025
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This collection is truly a great buy for anyone who desires to obtain a good sampling of Annie's more popular works.

It offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the rich and diverse world of Annie Dillard's writing.

I have personally given this very collection as a gift to someone whom I would very much like to get hooked on Annie Dillard's captivating prose.

The works included in this compilation are carefully selected to showcase the breadth and depth of her talent.

Whether it's her vivid descriptions, profound insights, or unique perspectives, readers are sure to be enthralled by Annie Dillard's words.

By giving this collection as a gift, I hope to introduce others to the joy and inspiration that can be found in her writing.

It is a wonderful way to share the beauty and power of Annie Dillard's works with those we care about.

July 15,2025
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Expedition to the Pole has to be one of my all-time favorite essays now.

It is truly a remarkable piece of writing that captivates the reader from the very beginning.

The way it describes the challenges and adventures of the polar expedition is both thrilling and inspiring.

I was completely engrossed in the story, feeling as if I was right there with the explorers.

I desperately needed to read it, and I'm so grateful to Brooke for sharing this wonderful essay with us.

It has not only entertained me but also taught me a great deal about perseverance, courage, and the beauty of nature.

I will definitely be reading it again in the future and recommending it to others.

July 15,2025
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This is a collection of essays that can be described as a bit of a hit or miss. However, it's important to note that the misses here are really just narrow misses. They might have come close to hitting the mark but fell just short. On the other hand, every hit in this collection is a bullseye. It's as if the author has managed to perfectly capture the essence and convey the intended message with absolute precision.

Each essay in this collection offers a unique perspective and takes the reader on a journey of thought and discovery. Some may challenge your preconceived notions, while others may simply provide a moment of reflection. The writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers of all backgrounds to enjoy and understand.

Whether you're looking for inspiration, entertainment, or a new way of looking at the world, this collection of essays has something to offer. So sit back, relax, and let the words transport you to new and exciting places.
July 15,2025
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Another amazing read!

I'm truly on a roll.

Absolutely loved this one.

It captured my attention from the very beginning and held it tightly until the very end.

The story was engaging, the characters were well-developed, and the writing was superb.

It was like I was transported into a different world, completely immersed in the plot and the emotions of the characters.

Every page turn was filled with anticipation and excitement.

I couldn't put this book down.

It's one of those rare reads that leaves a lasting impression and makes you want to pick it up again and again.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good story.

You won't be disappointed.
July 15,2025
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Annie Dillard is truly an inspiration. Her voracious mind seems to devour knowledge and ideas from every corner.

Her singular intelligence shines through in her writing, captivating readers and leaving them in awe.

One cannot help but bow down to her literary prowess and the depth of her understanding.

The words she pens are like precious gems, each one carefully crafted and placed to create a masterpiece.

Her work is filled with good stuff, good stuff that enriches the soul and expands the mind.

Annie Dillard's contributions to the literary world are invaluable, and her influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.

We are truly fortunate to have such a talented and insightful writer in our midst.

July 15,2025
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A Superb Collection of Works


This is truly a remarkable collection of works that is not to be missed. It is a treasure trove for any lover of creative non-fiction. The pieces within this collection are crafted with such finesse and attention to detail that they are sure to captivate and engage the reader from start to finish. Whether you are already a die-hard fan of creative non-fiction or someone who has yet to discover the joys of this genre, this collection is highly recommended. It offers a diverse range of voices and perspectives, each bringing something unique and valuable to the table. So, if you are looking for a literary experience that will leave you inspired and enlightened, look no further than this superb collection of works.

July 15,2025
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Am I the only person who didn't fall in love with Annie Dillard?

I had this book sitting on my "to read" shelf for over 5 years. Eventually, I decided to give it away to the local library book sale.

Many people whom I respect have recommended her work. I know that she must have something special to offer.

Some day, I will gather up the courage and try her again. I'm curious to see if I was just in the wrong mindset when I first picked up her book.

In the meantime, I hope that someone out there is reading this copy and truly enjoying it. Maybe they will have a completely different experience than I did.

I'm looking forward to the day when I can give Annie Dillard another chance and see if I can finally understand what all the fuss is about.
July 15,2025
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Incredible collection of books!

This collection is truly a wonder to behold. Each book seems to hold a world of its own within its pages.

The variety is vast, ranging from thrilling adventure stories that take you on wild escapades to thought-provoking works of non-fiction that expand your knowledge and understanding.

The covers are all beautifully designed, enticing you to pick them up and explore what lies within.

I find myself constantly drawn to this collection, unable to resist the allure of these wonderful books.

They have become a source of inspiration and entertainment for me, and I love them all with a passion.

Whether I'm curled up on the couch on a rainy day or sitting in a quiet corner of a café, these books always manage to transport me to another place and time.

I feel truly fortunate to have such an amazing collection of books at my disposal.

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