How to Read a Book: A Novel

Young Violet has been convicted of a felony DUI hit and run. The victim is a kindergarten teacher with a daughter and loving husband. Luckily for Violet, an understanding volunteer comes to the prison to facilitate a book club. Soon the inmates are writing poetry and becoming involved in their book leader’s life. This is against prison regulations, but Harriet can’t stop herself from sharing too much. Harriet shops for books at a little book shop where the victim’s husband is the shop’s handyman.

When Violet is released from prison, she has help from her family but no continued contact. Violet finds herself alone, jobless, and in an unfamiliar city. She has no job and is friendless. When a cat in the bookstore window touches her heart, complications ensue. Soon all three lives are intwined as the older adults realized that Violet needs parenting. A lovely and hope filled story.