Top 13 Anne Tyler Books

Michael Hernandez
11 min readJul 14, 2024

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Dive into the world of Anne Tyler’s captivating novels as we present a roundup of her latest works. From exploring complex human relationships to delving into the intricate details of everyday life, Tyler’s books offer a unique and thought-provoking reading experience.

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1. Anne Tyler

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A Bio-Bibliography

Discover the captivating world of Anne Tyler, one of America’s most celebrated contemporary writers, with this comprehensive bio-bibliography. This engaging volume offers a rich introduction to the life and work of Tyler, blending biographical insights with an extensive record of her writings and critical acclaim. Drawing from source materials at Duke University and letters from Tyler to the author, the book paints a vivid picture of Tyler’s journey from her childhood in a North Carolina commune to her rise to fame.

Explore her early years, including her high school days in Raleigh, college years at Duke, and her first attempts at writing. Delve into the development of her life and career, from her marriage, motherhood, and early novels to her later works and themes.

This bio-bibliography also serves as an invaluable annotated bibliography, with a comprehensive listing of her novels, short stories, nonfiction articles, poetry, and children’s books. Additionally, it highlights book reviews and manuscripts from Tyler’s papers at Duke University, providing a well-rounded understanding of her literary contributions.

A must-read for fans, scholars, and anyone seeking to gain a deeper appreciation for the remarkable writing of Anne Tyler, this intricately woven bio-bibliography is a testament to her enduring impact on the literary landscape.

  • Authors: Robert W. Croft
  • Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing USA
  • Published Date: February 22, 1995
  • Page Count: 188
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Literary Criticism
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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2. Celestial Navigation

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“Celestial Navigation” is a heart-rending, yet heartwarming exploration of love by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author Anne Tyler. This 1996 Vintage publication takes the reader on a journey through the life of Jeremy Pauling- an adult who has spent his entire life in his own world, living on the top floor of a Baltimore rowhouse that doubles as his sanctuary. Jeremy’s solitude is disrupted when he has to take in a new boarder, Mary Tell, along with her child.

Jeremy’s fragility, matched only by his vulnerability to love, makes for a poignant tale of self-discovery and human connection. This book is a celebration of the courage and vulnerability that lies in all of us, masterfully weaved by Tyler into an engaging narrative. “Celestial Navigation” is a testament to Anne Tyler’s brilliant storytelling, offering not just a story, but a window to the human experience of love.

  • Authors: Anne Tyler
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published Date: August 27, 1996
  • Page Count: 285
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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3. Morgan’s Passing

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Discover the captivating world of Anne Tyler’s “Morgan’s Passing” for an unforgettable journey of love and self-discovery. This New York Times bestseller weaves an almost flawless tale of Morgan Gower, a middle-aged hardware store owner, and his unexpected encounter with two newlywed couples that upends the mundane world he once knew. With a heartwarming exploration of love’s unpredictable nature, “Morgan’s Passing” delves into the complexities of life and relationships, inviting readers to embrace the unexpected twists and turns that await.

  • Authors: Anne Tyler
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published Date: August 27, 1996
  • Page Count: 352
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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4. A Slipping-Down Life

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A Slipping-Down Life is a captivating story by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author Anne Tyler, featuring the character Evie Decker. Evie is an introverted teenager with a quiet life, until she hears the voice of Drumstrings Casey on the radio and feels an instant connection. As their friendship unfolds, Evie discovers the joys of self-expression and embraces her true nature.

With Tyler’s masterful storytelling, readers are drawn into a world of relatable and unforgettable characters, creating an experience that is both touching and enlightening. At just 191 pages, this literary gem is a must-read for any fan of the genre.

  • Authors: Anne Tyler
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published Date: January 05, 2011
  • Page Count: 191
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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5. The Clock Winder

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Discover the enchanting world of Anne Tyler’s “The Clock Winder, “ where an unassuming young woman steps into a life-changing role. Join Elizabeth Abbott, a bohemian twenty-three-year-old, as she stumbles upon the crumbling Victorian mansion of Mrs. Emerson, a widow with seven adult children.

What begins as a simple job of fixing clocks transforms into a heartwarming journey that brings together a dysfunctional family and breathes new life into their once-lost bond. As the Emerson children return home, they find their way back to one another, guided by the wit and charm of the newcomer in their midst.

With wondrous observations and bittersweet humor, Tyler masterfully weaves a tale that leaves readers with a renewed sense of hope and love.

  • Authors: Anne Tyler
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published Date: January 26, 2011
  • Page Count: 322
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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6. Saint Maybe

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Discover the touching story of Ian Bedloe in Anne Tyler’s Saint Maybe. As a perfect son living the ideal suburban life in Baltimore, Ian’s world is shattered when a malicious rumor leads to an unthinkable tragedy. Deeply troubled by his perceived role in the event, Ian searches for redemption and salvation.

In a surprising turn, he encounters the Church of the Second Chance, which he believes offers him a chance for forgiveness and a new path. As Ian navigates his path towards peace and understanding, he also reconnects with his family and discovers the true meaning of love and faith. This poignant novel by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author is an inspiring tale of redemption and resilience.

  • Authors: Anne Tyler
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published Date: January 26, 2011
  • Page Count: 347
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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7. Love, Nina

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A Nanny Writes Home

“Love, Nina: A Nanny Writes Home” is a charming, inspiring, and delightfully hilarious read. Set in 1982, 20-year-old Nina Stibbe embarked on a journey to London as a nanny for two lively and opinionated young boys.

Throughout her incredible adventure, Nina documented her trials and triumphs through letters to her sister. In these letters, readers will discover the intricacies of Nina’s life, where she encountered everything from unliked cats to parking misadventures, to intriguing dinner table discussions with a famous local playwright and a mother connected to the literary world of London. As she learned from the boys and their family, “Love, Nina” brings to life a young woman’s experiences in a new and unfamiliar world.

Written by Nina Stibbe and published by Hachette UK, this captivating book offers a unique perspective into life as a nanny, as the author recounts funny, heartwarming, and sometimes challenging experiences in a relatable and engaging manner. With 336 pages in the Biography & Autobiography category and an average rating of 0, this book is a must-read for fans of engaging narratives and authentic storytelling.

  • Authors: Nina Stibbe
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published Date: April 22, 2014
  • Page Count: 336
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Biography & Autobiography
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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8. A Spool of Blue Thread

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Experience the enchanting world of “A Spool of Blue Thread,” a mesmerizing novel penned by Anne Tyler, a Pulitzer Prize winner. This compelling story takes you on a deep dive into the intricacies of family life, skillfully weaving together themes of compassion, humor, and understanding. Following the journey of three generations of the Whitshank family, this captivating 353-page narrative transports readers through a tapestry of shared memories, hidden truths, and unguarded moments that shape their relationships and the fabric of their existence. From the tranquil afternoons of yesteryear to the modern-day trials and tribulations of caring for our loved ones, this novel masterfully captures the essence of a family’s life — complete with its joys and sorrows.

“A Spool of Blue Thread” is a must-read tale of love, loyalty, and the unbreakable bonds that unite families.

  • Authors: Anne Tyler
  • Publisher: Bond Street Books
  • Published Date: February 10, 2015
  • Page Count: 353
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Average Rating: 4.0
  • Ratings Count: 1.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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9. The Accidental Tourist

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“The Accidental Tourist” is an enchanting novel by beloved Pulitzer Prize-winning author Anne Tyler. The story follows Macon Leary, a travel writer with a deep-seated fear of the unknown who finds himself reluctantly drawn into a life-changing love story with eccentric dog trainer Muriel.

Despite Macon’s best efforts to protect himself from the outside world, Muriel’s infectious optimism and ability to break down his walls lead to an unexpected and beautiful romance. This captivating tale of unexpected happiness and resilience showcases Tyler’s incredible talent for creating relatable and magical characters, making “The Accidental Tourist” a must-read for fans of literary fiction.

  • Authors: Anne Tyler
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published Date: May 05, 2015
  • Page Count: 340
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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10. Ladder of Years

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Step into the captivating world of Anne Tyler’s Ladder of Years, where the line between impulse and decision is blurred. Forty-year-old Delia Grinstead mysteriously disappears from a family vacation, leaving behind everything she once knew. For Delia, a quiet, largely unnoticed figure, this is a chance to start anew. .

As Delia embraces her new life, Tyler masterfully weaves a tale of poignancy, humor, and suspense. Ladder of Years showcases Tyler’s gift for creating unforgettable characters and immersive situations. With her signature clarity, the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and the familiar takes on a new dimension.

If you’re in the mood for a gripping novel that explores ambition, identity, and the ties that bind us, you won’t want to miss Ladder of Years. Join Anne Tyler on an unforgettable journey that challenges the conventions of the modern family and will leave you utterly captivated, wonderfully satisfied, and practically flawless in its execution.

  • Authors: Anne Tyler
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published Date: May 05, 2015
  • Page Count: 408
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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11. Vinegar Girl

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William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew Retold: A Novel

Immerse yourself in the whimsical world of Anne Tyler’s “Vinegar Girl, “ a delightful and hilarious modern retelling of Shakespeare’s iconic play, “The Taming of the Shrew. “ Follow the journey of Kate Battista, a fiercely independent woman navigating the challenges of running a household and working as a pre-school teacher, all while dealing with her eccentric father and sister. When Kate’s father’s groundbreaking research faces a potential setback, she is thrust into an outrageous plan to save his lab assistant, Pyotr, from deportation. As the story unfolds, join Kate as she tackles the labyrinth of love, family, and academia, all under the watchful eye of the immortal Bard himself.

“Vinegar Girl” is a heartwarming tale of love, forgiveness, and the power of family ties, brought to life by the brilliant pen of Pulitzer Prize-winning Anne Tyler.

  • Authors: Anne Tyler
  • Publisher: Hogarth
  • Published Date: June 21, 2016
  • Page Count: 256
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Average Rating: 4.5
  • Ratings Count: 2.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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12. Clock Dance

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A novel

New York Times bestselling author Anne Tyler weaves an enchanting tale of self-discovery and second chances in her novel, Clock Dance. Meet Willa Drake, a woman who has had three opportunities to restart her life, only to receive yet another chance in 2017 — this time from a mysterious stranger. Drawn to Baltimore by the phone call, Willa stumbles upon a world full of eccentric neighbors who have formed their own unique bonds.

In this heartwarming journey, Tyler showcases the transformative power of making conscious decisions and the unexpected joys that life can bring. Clock Dance is an insightful exploration of the human experience, presented at its most brilliant by the beloved author.

  • Authors: Anne Tyler
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published Date: July 10, 2018
  • Page Count: 268
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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13. Redhead by the Side of the Road

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A novel

Get ready to embark on a heartwarming journey with Anne Tyler’s “Redhead by the Side of the Road. “ This New York Times Bestseller and Booker Prize nominee offers readers an intimate look into the life of Micah Mortimer, a man who values routine and stability above all else.

Introduced as a self-employed tech expert and superintendent of his Baltimore apartment building, Micah leads a seemingly simple life — until his world is suddenly turned upside down. His woman friend tells him she’s facing eviction, and a teenager arrives at his door, claiming to be his son. These unexpected events challenge Micah’s meticulously organized life, with the potential to change him forever.

As Micah grapples with these newfound realities, the novel explores the themes of misperception, second chances, and the power of human connection. Full of Anne Tyler’s signature wit and keen observation, “Redhead by the Side of the Road” is a triumph that will leave readers with a newfound appreciation for the sometimes elusive connections in our lives.

With just 177 pages, this compelling story is a must-read for fans of the author and those looking for a captivating, heartfelt read about the twists and turns life can bring. Experience Anne Tyler’s distinctive voice and characters, and prepare to find joy and compassion in the most unexpected places in this unputdownable novel.

  • Authors: Anne Tyler
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published Date: April 07, 2020
  • Page Count: 177
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Fiction
  • Maturity Rating: NOT_MATURE
  • Language: en

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