Pat very much enjoyed hearing from his readers and was often moved and inspired by your comments.
As you know, Pat Conroy died on March 4, 2016. This site continues to be managed by his longtime friends and literary agents. You may join in a community of his readers by sharing your comments about Pat’s books or anything else that comes to mind in this guest book. We, the family, the agents and the friends are deeply moved by the outpouring of love you, his beloved readers, wrote here… Much gratitude to you all; Thank you.
Read what others are saying or click the button to add your own thoughts
162 entries.
wrote on August 5, 2021
at
11:48 pm
If you are a Conroy follower and haven’t read his 1996 preface to the current printing of Scribner’s and Mitchell’s Gone with the Wind, it is a stirring tribute to the years that wrapped the War Between the States, pre-, during and post-. A marvelous essay that captures the spirit of the Lost Cause and all that became of the South, Atlanta and the futility of ante-bellum life. And now, for me, it’s on to reading the 1,000 page tome from 1936 that changed the American literature scene.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Frank Reedy; I got goosebumps as I almost always do when I read, re-read that preface which we placed in Pat’s collection that became MY READING LIFE (2010) Nothing ever helped me to understand the south in a particular way than that writing… and yet again as the master said:
“American letters will always be tiptoeing nervously around that room where Scarlett O'Hara dresses for the party at Twelve Oaks as the War Between the States begins to inch its way toward Tara.” – Thank you for posting!!
“American letters will always be tiptoeing nervously around that room where Scarlett O'Hara dresses for the party at Twelve Oaks as the War Between the States begins to inch its way toward Tara.” – Thank you for posting!!
wrote on August 3, 2021
at
10:16 am
Just watched 'Conrack' and discovered Pat Conroy. I will seek out more of his work. He will continue to inspire future generations.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Conrack film is based on Pat Conroy's "The Water is Wide" That book encouraged many young people to become teachers. Thank you for posting...!!
wrote on August 3, 2021
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6:29 am
Some 30 years ago I read Prince of Tides and could not put the book down. Recently, while searching my local library, I came across South of Broad. I've just spent most of the day and evening reading this wonderful put and have just finished it. I wish I had sufficient words to give adequate praise to his writing. It is so honest, laying human frailties out for all to see, and then demonstrating the triumph of the human spirit. His writing was such a wonderful gift.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Wonderful, thank you for posting here your great thoughts...
wrote on July 24, 2021
at
4:25 am
He was and continues to be an inspiration. I have read his books many times. They are old friends. The works are ageless and set in my beloved South. His characters remind me of my upbringing and the many people who have touched my life.
I have turned to them during times of joy, loneliness and grief. Particularly during these current times when the world has gone crazy, time has stood still and the very fabric of our life is being torn.
May his stories live on, the South rise again and our Country return to the greatness that our founding fathers imagined.
May God bless the USA and long live the legacy of Pat Conroy!
I have turned to them during times of joy, loneliness and grief. Particularly during these current times when the world has gone crazy, time has stood still and the very fabric of our life is being torn.
May his stories live on, the South rise again and our Country return to the greatness that our founding fathers imagined.
May God bless the USA and long live the legacy of Pat Conroy!
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Nicole, I look at these messages when they come in - my duty as the web master as they say and they stir lots of emotions. We could never forget Pat Conroy Legacy; We all, family, friends, literary agents, read these messages and it's like inhaling oxygen... Thank you for writing such a passionate message!!
wrote on July 7, 2021
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9:46 pm
2003-2004 was the last of my preliminary vice presidential years before becoming president of the South Carolina Council of Teachers of English (SCCTE). That year our board chose former Beaufort High School English teacher Gene Norris as the person we wanted to honor with our Richard P. Riley Award, presented annually to someone who has made significant contributions to the teaching of English in our state.
My role at the time led me to be tasked with some of the particulars of how to honor Gene in the most memorable way possible. Since we were quite familiar with Gene's friendship with Pat, his former student, and the way that Pat always managed to slip in beautiful tributes to Gene (as well as the larger population of dedicated English teachers) in his interviews and conversations, we knew that our celebration had to include Pat Conroy.
Some time during Pat's publicity tour for My Losing Season he was scheduled for a signing at the Open Book (now unfortunately open no longer) in Greenville, SC. We made arrangements with the owner for me to meet Pat before he greeted the general public. That moment is a cherished memory I will never forget.
When I told Pat that our state English teacher association was planning to recognize Gene with its highest award, he looked at me and without missing a beat said, "Son, if you're doing anything to honor Gene Norris, you just tell me when and where, and I'll be there."
Of course, he was true to his word. I can promise anyone who reads this that there are quite a few English teachers around the state of South Carolina who remember seeing Pat's tribute to Gene that year as one of the most beautiful moments in the history of our conference. Sadly, Gene passed away several months later, but one of his family members told me at his funeral how precious that moment was for Gene as well.
I just wanted to publicly thank Pat for what he meant to those of us who teach English. In addition to his wonderful books, we are so fortunate to still have his beautiful words of support for our profession with us.
My role at the time led me to be tasked with some of the particulars of how to honor Gene in the most memorable way possible. Since we were quite familiar with Gene's friendship with Pat, his former student, and the way that Pat always managed to slip in beautiful tributes to Gene (as well as the larger population of dedicated English teachers) in his interviews and conversations, we knew that our celebration had to include Pat Conroy.
Some time during Pat's publicity tour for My Losing Season he was scheduled for a signing at the Open Book (now unfortunately open no longer) in Greenville, SC. We made arrangements with the owner for me to meet Pat before he greeted the general public. That moment is a cherished memory I will never forget.
When I told Pat that our state English teacher association was planning to recognize Gene with its highest award, he looked at me and without missing a beat said, "Son, if you're doing anything to honor Gene Norris, you just tell me when and where, and I'll be there."
Of course, he was true to his word. I can promise anyone who reads this that there are quite a few English teachers around the state of South Carolina who remember seeing Pat's tribute to Gene that year as one of the most beautiful moments in the history of our conference. Sadly, Gene passed away several months later, but one of his family members told me at his funeral how precious that moment was for Gene as well.
I just wanted to publicly thank Pat for what he meant to those of us who teach English. In addition to his wonderful books, we are so fortunate to still have his beautiful words of support for our profession with us.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Terry Filippo, your message made me read again (and again) “The Teacher” chapter in Pat’s “My Reading Life” – It is an extraordinary ode to Gene Norris – the part with Pat visiting Gene in the hospital hides beneath Gene rough language aimed at Pat to “leave him alone” a masterpiece of description the love between these two humans… unforgettable!.
With the two now gone “The Teacher” is even more valuable as a read, an insight in these two wonderful people’s souls!!!
Thank you for bringing this up. Actually I passed your message to all board members and docents as well…
With the two now gone “The Teacher” is even more valuable as a read, an insight in these two wonderful people’s souls!!!
Thank you for bringing this up. Actually I passed your message to all board members and docents as well…
wrote on July 7, 2021
at
2:43 pm
I have read all of Pat Conroy's books and loved every one. It breaks my heart that there will be no more. His description of Charleston made me want to jump on a plane and go there immediately. Years later I was able to visit this beautiful city. He didn't write words - he wrote poetry and the world of literature will never be the same without him.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Jillian, I cannot help weeping every time I see these entries in this Guest Book. The loss is so unbearable. Every time I see human race loses one of its irreplaceable beings I dream of a pact with divinity: "I'll go collect time from this person adulatory base, a year from each and we then expect a life extension to our hero.."
I believe there could be some more from Pat if we can find a way to use his unfinished manuscripts... Thank you for writing!!
I believe there could be some more from Pat if we can find a way to use his unfinished manuscripts... Thank you for writing!!
wrote on July 5, 2021
at
2:59 pm
I just finished The Prince of Tides and loved every page. Mr. Conroy's development of his characters with their emotions, cultural background and conflicts of love and family were extraordinary. His style of writing in itself is nothing short of beautiful. I look forward to reading more of his works.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Thank you for coming to Pat Conroy writings. You will not be disappointed. Perhaps you should read them in the order they were written... I did this myself at some time past so that I feel his growing into his mastery of the English language - However, read them as you please... everyone of them is a masterpiece...!
wrote on June 23, 2021
at
1:46 pm
I was turned onto Pat by the author Greg Iles. Only one word can describe Pat Conroy's writing, and that is "WOW'. I have read every available book written by him, and wished there were more forthcoming. God Bless Pat Conroy.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Indeed there is a constant "WOW" factor about Pat Conroy writing. Thank you for joining his readers..!
wrote on June 14, 2021
at
1:21 pm
As a boy of about ten, I saw the movie, "Conrack," based on Pat Conroy's book, "The Water Is Wide." That's when I became a lifelong fan of Pat's. I've since become a sports broadcaster, and when Pat's book, "My Losing Season" was published, I was working at Madison Square Garden Network in New York City.
He was scheduled to do an interview with me, which I arranged to happen on the court at The World's Most Famous Arena. Unfortunately, Pat took ill and was unable to keep our appointment. I was so disappointed. I got married two years ago, and recently re-watched Conrack for the umpteenth time, introducing it to my wife, Shari.
Of course, I told her all about Pat's impact on me, and that time I came so close to meeting him.
He was scheduled to do an interview with me, which I arranged to happen on the court at The World's Most Famous Arena. Unfortunately, Pat took ill and was unable to keep our appointment. I was so disappointed. I got married two years ago, and recently re-watched Conrack for the umpteenth time, introducing it to my wife, Shari.
Of course, I told her all about Pat's impact on me, and that time I came so close to meeting him.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
This is short of a small miracle... From 10 years old to a mature adult your eloquent admiration and loyalty to Pat Conroy is very moving. Thank you for writing.
wrote on June 10, 2021
at
7:06 pm
I just finished reading the Water is Wide. I am touched beyond words.
Now I have to read more of his books.
Now I have to read more of his books.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Lori Geiger, you hardly touched the surface of the immense world of Pat Conroy's writings... Keep reading, once inside Pat's writings you’ll rise and fall with the tide of the English language at its very best; it will be like on an unforgettable roller coaster of emotions!!!
wrote on June 6, 2021
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10:17 pm
I spent 4 years in NJ-ROTC in high school and my first Conroy books were The Lords of Discipline and My Losing Season.. After reading the Lords of Discipline I knew then and there I wanted to be a Citadel man just as Conroy was and just like Will McClean was at the Carolina Military Institute in the book. I pursued this dream because of Conroy's book inspiring me.
I attended leadership school there and applied for college to be in the corps of cadets now while I was rejected due to not having a second language I remained and still remain a supporter of the college because both Pat Conroy and the Citadel taught me a lot about growing up and being both my self and "a man". I'm thankful that I discovered Conroy and his books and stories.
I attended leadership school there and applied for college to be in the corps of cadets now while I was rejected due to not having a second language I remained and still remain a supporter of the college because both Pat Conroy and the Citadel taught me a lot about growing up and being both my self and "a man". I'm thankful that I discovered Conroy and his books and stories.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Joseph Davidson, your story is a story of courage, determination and perseverance. Anybody knowing your story would perhaps think, like I do, that The Citadel lost a person who would have made it proud.
wrote on May 11, 2021
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1:40 pm
I spent alot of time in Low Country (Beaufort) and on Hunting Island when I was a kid. I read my first Conroy when I was in high school, and I loved it!
Now... I'm 55, teach senior English at Danville Community High School and encourage my students to read Conroy every semester.
My wife and I plan on retiring to the Beaufort area eventually, where I plan to do some writing myself.
He was/is an inspiration to so many!! RIP
Now... I'm 55, teach senior English at Danville Community High School and encourage my students to read Conroy every semester.
My wife and I plan on retiring to the Beaufort area eventually, where I plan to do some writing myself.
He was/is an inspiration to so many!! RIP
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Indeed Pat Conroy was and still is an inspiration for many and that inspiration stayed with you for decades... We thank you for this "gift" of loyalty to our "Prince of Words."
wrote on May 9, 2021
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9:44 pm
I first read The Great Santini when I was a Marine stationed at Camp Lejeune in 1977. Pat Conroy is in the top 3 of my all-time favorite authors.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
You are a faithful reader. We thank you for continuing to be a Conroy supporter.
wrote on April 5, 2021
at
1:09 am
Greetings from Bullarto, in the State of Victoria, Australia. I’m about half way through my first Pat Conroy book, The Prince of Tides. Henry Wingo has just bought the gas station (or as we would call it the petrol station) and he and the kids are at the circus.
It took me a little while to appreciate the language and engage with the plot, but now I’m in and hooked and know that this won’t be my last Conroy. Thanks for the website, it’s a great way to see how others having enjoyed what I’m now enjoying. The Great Santini is next.
It took me a little while to appreciate the language and engage with the plot, but now I’m in and hooked and know that this won’t be my last Conroy. Thanks for the website, it’s a great way to see how others having enjoyed what I’m now enjoying. The Great Santini is next.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Peter Francis welcome to 'Pat Conroy' - I say this as a welcome to a world you have not heard of before or ever experienced. As I said decades ago you will raise and fall with the greatness of the English language at its best... like riding an unique surf wave coming to your shore. You can see the order of his books on this site... Read whatever order you decide but starting with past to the latest will give you an unprecedented look at his evolution... no matter what you choose you'll be handsomely rewarded...
wrote on April 4, 2021
at
8:02 am
I love Beach Music and I want to nominate it to be made into a film.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
From your words to the GOD's ear Robin; it might be possible at some time... Thank you for the good omen!!!
wrote on April 2, 2021
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10:18 pm
I just watched the movie Conrack for the 3rd time in the past few weeks. I remember seeing it with my mom growing up. This is my favorite movie from that era and being a native of South Carolina, I can say, it has a special place. I wish I could've met Mr. Conroy and learned more of his experience on the island of Daufauski.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Dear Henrietta Blair, we are the "guardians" and the supporters of Pat Conroy presence on the Internet. His family reads and enjoys every word you send to him. Thank you and keep reading Pat's works which are life enhancing literary pearls.
wrote on March 7, 2021
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11:06 am
I just finished South of Broad. I wish that there were still another 300 pages to read. Mr. Conroy has a wonderful way with words. My favorite author, Ken Follett, also puts the best words in the best order. I once referred to him as the "goat." Now Mr. Conroy has joined the fray and now it's the Jordan and James debate for me in the book world, lol!
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
South of Broad is indeed a great book of Pat's - it has some detractors but it is mostly loved. It is a complex narrative running on various tracks sometimes parallel. I wouldn't be surprised if some smart producer would take it to the screen... Thank you for writing.
wrote on February 23, 2021
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9:12 pm
His books are companions. When you read his books, you discover sentences so well-crafted that it requires an appreciative pause. You experience places so descriptive, you are right next to him observing every nuance.
Thank you for patconroy.com in 2021.
Thank you for patconroy.com in 2021.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
This is a very poetic message to Pat. I hope he reads these all from the better place where he is...
wrote on February 21, 2021
at
9:50 pm
Love the books.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
Thank you Tina for writing in the guestbook.
wrote on January 3, 2021
at
11:01 am
Pat Conroy is and always has been my very favorite author. I always wanted to meet him. I wanted to thank him and hug him-thank him for his beautiful stories and for helping me understand the “complexities” of my own family better,-hug him to absorb some of his pain and share with him some of my own without the need for words.
I remember reading the Lords of Discipline as a teenager on a road trip during a hot summer in the back of a van. I sobbed for several days while reading that book. Beach Music is the best book I have ever read. I go back and read it every few years and I wish the story never ended. I am now reading it for probably the 7th or 8th time. I will always return to this book and am so happy to have it in first edition hardcover. My best to the Conroy family in this new year.
I remember reading the Lords of Discipline as a teenager on a road trip during a hot summer in the back of a van. I sobbed for several days while reading that book. Beach Music is the best book I have ever read. I go back and read it every few years and I wish the story never ended. I am now reading it for probably the 7th or 8th time. I will always return to this book and am so happy to have it in first edition hardcover. My best to the Conroy family in this new year.
Agency Reply by: Mihai Radulescu
I should not wonder about these notes to our beloved Pat Conroy... Often times I write something to him... sometimes it gets in a message on his author Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/PatConroyAuthor - I know how others feel as well. We are all part of the same tribe.
Often when we are in Beaufort and cross the long bridge over the Port Royal Sound we (Marly and I Pat's agents and friends) we both say loudly "Lowenstein, Lowenstein" the words with which The Prince of Tides movie ends since it was filmed on that bridge...
Thank you for writing.
Often when we are in Beaufort and cross the long bridge over the Port Royal Sound we (Marly and I Pat's agents and friends) we both say loudly "Lowenstein, Lowenstein" the words with which The Prince of Tides movie ends since it was filmed on that bridge...
Thank you for writing.