Pat Conroy Books

Heartfelt remembrances and final reflections from bestselling author Pat Conroy are featured in this poignant nonfiction collection. Alongside Conroy's own words, contributions from his friends provide a touching tribute, celebrating his life and legacy. The collection captures the essence of his impact on literature and those around him, offering readers a glimpse into the personal connections he forged throughout his journey.

Homeless and shy teen Peggy Dillan is on the run from a secret past. After daring to save a stray dog from a tormenting gang, she finds herself running right into the Farroway Animal Shelter and into something unexpected. There she meets an eccentric group of misfits in charge of the abused and neglected animals: no-nonsense, allergy-ridden Betty; cantankerous cat lady Clara; caring animal cop Joe; and Terry—the optimistic, patient, and diplomatic warden.Enlisted into their ranks, Peggy learns to navigate the run-down, problem-ridden shelter while searching for a way to save the stray dog, Lucky, from his abusive owner. As Peggy struggles to help save the sinking shelter, she learns it’s possible to change the world “one corner at a time” with courage and conviction.

Set in a Southern military academy, the story explores the harrowing experiences of a cadet facing brutal abuse. It delves into themes of resilience and rebellion as the protagonist confronts the oppressive environment. The narrative is crafted by a bestselling author known for his poignant storytelling, offering a compelling look at the struggle against institutional violence and the quest for personal freedom.

A “miraculous” (Newsweek) human drama, based on a true story, from the renowned author of The Prince of Tides and The Great Santini The island is nearly deserted, haunting, beautiful. Across a slip of ocean lies South Carolina. But for the handful of families on Yamacraw Island, America is a world away. For years the people here lived proudly from the sea, but now its waters are not safe. Waste from industry threatens their very existence unless, somehow, they can learn a new way. But they will learn nothing without someone to teach them, and their school has no teacher—until one man gives a year of his life to the island and its people. Praise for The Water Is Wide “Miraculous . . . an experience of joy.”—Newsweek “A powerfully moving book . . . You will laugh, you will weep, you will be proud and you will rail . . . and you will learn to love the man.”—Charleston News and Courier “A hell of a good story.”—The New York Times “Few novelists write as well, and none as beautifully.”—Lexington Herald-Leader “[Pat] Conroy cuts through his experiences with a sharp edge of irony. . . . He brings emotion, writing talent and anger to his story.”—Baltimore Sun

A novel about a man's struggle to overcome the psychological damage inflicted on him during his dysfunctional childhood.

In 1954, in Orlando, Florida, nine-year-old Pat Conroy discovered the game of basketball.

An American living in Rome with his daughter after his wife's suicide tracks a classmate who went underground as a Vietnam protester and never resurfaced.

A novel about the fictional family of an American fighter pilot.

"Pat Conroy spent a year teaching black children on an impoverished island off the South Carolina coast." -- jacket.

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Look for special features inside. Join the Random House Reader’s Circle for author chats and more. Pat Conroy's success as a writer is deeply tied to his family history. As the eldest of seven, he witnessed the harsh behavior of his father, Marine Corps fighter pilot Donald Patrick Conroy, during their turbulent childhood spent moving between military bases in the South. The release of The Great Santini brought acclaim but also a rift that further strained their already fragile family dynamics. In this poignant narrative, Pat reflects on the healing power of love, even amidst deep-seated wounds. In Don Conroy's later years, he unexpectedly shifted to defend his son's honor, showcasing a complex relationship that evolved over time. The Death of Santini is a heartfelt exploration of reconciliation, emphasizing the belief that "in families there are no crimes beyond forgiveness." Praise highlights Conroy as a brilliant storyteller and a master of sarcasm, with his writing described as painful yet lyrical and addictive. His deep familial bonds resonate throughout the narrative, making it a vital and often humorous read that fans will cherish.