Picture a Wisconsin storyteller who spins humor and heartache into novels that feel like a warm hug—meet Ann Wertz Garvin! A nurse, professor, and USA Today Bestselling Author, Garvin crafts stories about women with big hearts and bigger challenges, blending wit with emotional depth. Her unique lens on life’s messiness has earned her a devoted readership and a spot in the literary spotlight.
From her work as a health educator to founding the Tall Poppy Writers, Garvin’s journey is as inspiring as her books. Let’s dive into the world of this multifaceted author whose stories remind us that laughter and tears are two sides of the same coin.
The Making of Ann Wertz Garvin
Ann Wertz Garvin grew up with a knack for understanding people, a skill she honed as a registered nurse while earning her PhD in exercise psychology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her early career blended science and storytelling, as she studied human behavior and taught health and nutrition. But it was her love for writing that led her to novels, sparked by a desire to capture the humor and sadness of everyday life. Garvin’s leap into fiction wasn’t glamorous—she jokingly admits she thought writing would land her a beach house, but she’s still waiting (sunglasses ready, though).
Her background as a nurse and educator shaped her empathetic voice, while her Midwestern roots grounded her stories in relatable, small-town settings. This blend of heart and humor became her trademark, setting the stage for a literary career that resonates with readers.
Ann Wertz Garvin’s Unforgettable Stories
Garvin’s novels are like a good friend who makes you laugh through tears. Her debut, On Maggie’s Watch (2010), follows Maggie Finley, a pregnant woman obsessed with protecting her neighborhood, only to unravel hidden threats. It’s a tender exploration of community and control, laced with Garvin’s signature wit. The Dog Year (2014) introduces Dr. Lucy Peterman, a surgeon rebuilding her life after loss, finding solace in a stray dog and a quirky support group. Readers love its heartfelt humor and raw honesty.
I Like You Just Fine When You’re Not Around (2016) tackles family dynamics and Alzheimer’s with a light touch, weaving a story of sisters navigating love and rage. Her 2021 novel, I Thought You Said This Would Work, is a road-trip tale of estranged friends reuniting to help a loved one with cancer, proving Garvin’s knack for balancing comedy and connection. Her latest, Bummer Camp (2024), dives into sisterhood and legacy with a failing theater camp as the backdrop. Garvin’s style—witty, poignant, and deeply human—makes her characters feel like neighbors you’d invite over for coffee.
Each book explores themes of friendship, resilience, and self-discovery, reflecting Garvin’s belief that life is “funny and a little bit sad.” Her ability to find humor in heavy topics like grief and illness sets her apart in contemporary fiction.
Why Ann Wertz Garvin Matters
Ann Wertz Garvin’s impact goes beyond her novels. As the founder of the Tall Poppy Writers, she’s built a community to amplify women’s voices in publishing, helping authors connect with readers. Her work as a sought-after speaker on writing, leadership, and health inspires audiences nationwide, from New York to San Francisco. Garvin’s stories resonate because they celebrate flawed, relatable women who rise above life’s chaos, offering readers both escape and reflection.
Her influence lies in her authenticity—whether teaching at Drexel University’s MFA program or penning novels, Garvin brings warmth and wisdom to everything she does. She’s a reminder that storytelling can heal, connect, and make us laugh when we need it most.
- Born: Wisconsin, USA
- Key Works: On Maggie’s Watch, The Dog Year, I Like You Just Fine When You’re Not Around, I Thought You Said This Would Work, Bummer Camp
- Notable Achievement: USA Today Bestselling Author
- Fun Fact: She’s an anxious dog mom to Peanut!
Ready to laugh, cry, and cheer for unforgettable women? Grab I Thought You Said This Would Work and dive into Ann Wertz Garvin’s heartwarming world!