Parnassus Books

I’m a firm believer that bookstores are the real version of Neverland. And Parnassus Books in Nashville is exactly that kind of magical escape. Parnassus is more than just a bookstore — it’s a love letter to reading, and to community. Owned by novelist Ann Patchett, it has been designed to draw you in and invite you to pull up a chair to stay awhile. There are always events happening- so pay attention to the calendar! Venture toward the back, and you’ll enter the children’s realm — a space made for wonder. There’s even a whimsical little door meant just for kids (though, yes — I confess, I saw a few grown-ups slipping through it too!). The design invites curiosity and delight, which is exactly how a children’s section should feel. If you collect picture books (as I do), this section is a treat. It’s playful, warm, and imaginative — just the kind of place you want to linger in. Add to that friendly staff, occasional store dogs roaming the aisles, and a sense of real joy in the air, and it becomes an experience.

We’ve been to the Nashville area before but this was my first time spending multiple days and taking time to visit all the must-do Nashville things. Top of my list was to visit Parnassus. How lucky was I that we happened to be in town when Ann Patchett would have office hours! This was a highlight of my trip! The store is beautiful, just what you want out of a locally owned bookshop. I was excited to get a signed copy of one of my favorite Nashville area authors’ book, Colin Gentry’s Third Act. I already owned the book but had to snag the signed copy. To then have Ms Patchett add personalized messages to a couple of the books I chose was fabulous!

What a beautiful bookshop! Situated in a trendy shopping center, it's not especially eye-catching from the outside - but the inside is WOW! Rolling ladders along the walls are swoon-worthy, with perfect little tables and displays through the room. It's not an especially large shop, but well designed to show off lots of books and create cozy little alcoves. I stopped while passing through Nashville after reading Evan Friss' "The Bookshop" that mentioned this lovely store- and so glad I did! A perfect little bit of bookish joy!

What an awesome bookstore. Lots of people there when I visited. Many autographed books. Thank you to PJ for signing my journal!