What do you think?
Rate this book
Win a free kindle copy of this book!
5 days and 21:54:10
100 copies available
U.S. only
How to Read a Book
Win a free kindle copy of this book!
5 days and 21:54:10
100 copies available
U.S. only
A charming, deeply moving novel about second chances, unlikely friendships, and the life-changing power of sharing stories.
Our Reasons meet us in the morning and whisper to us at night. Mine is an innocent, unsuspecting, eternally sixty-one-year-old woman named Lorraine Daigle…
Violet Powell, a twenty-two-year-old from rural Abbott Falls, Maine, is being released from prison after serving twenty-two months for a drunk-driving crash that killed a local kindergarten teacher. Harriet Larson, a retired English teacher who runs the prison book club, is facing the unsettling prospect of an empty nest. Frank Daigle, a retired machinist, hasn’t yet come to grips with the complications of his marriage to the woman Violet killed.
When the three encounter each other one morning in a bookstore in Portland—Violet to buy the novel she was reading in the prison book club before her release, Harriet to choose the next title for the women who remain, and Frank to dispatch his duties as the store handyman—their lives begin to intersect in transformative ways.
How to Read a Book is an unsparingly honest and profoundly hopeful story about letting go of guilt, seizing second chances, and the power of books to change our lives. With the heart, wit, grace, and depth of understanding that has characterized her work, Monica Wood illuminates the decisions that define a life and the kindnesses that make life worth living.
Our Reasons meet us in the morning and whisper to us at night. Mine is an innocent, unsuspecting, eternally sixty-one-year-old woman named Lorraine Daigle…
Violet Powell, a twenty-two-year-old from rural Abbott Falls, Maine, is being released from prison after serving twenty-two months for a drunk-driving crash that killed a local kindergarten teacher. Harriet Larson, a retired English teacher who runs the prison book club, is facing the unsettling prospect of an empty nest. Frank Daigle, a retired machinist, hasn’t yet come to grips with the complications of his marriage to the woman Violet killed.
When the three encounter each other one morning in a bookstore in Portland—Violet to buy the novel she was reading in the prison book club before her release, Harriet to choose the next title for the women who remain, and Frank to dispatch his duties as the store handyman—their lives begin to intersect in transformative ways.
How to Read a Book is an unsparingly honest and profoundly hopeful story about letting go of guilt, seizing second chances, and the power of books to change our lives. With the heart, wit, grace, and depth of understanding that has characterized her work, Monica Wood illuminates the decisions that define a life and the kindnesses that make life worth living.
280 pages, Hardcover
First published June 18, 2024
About the author
Monica Wood
29 books1,816 followersMonica Wood is the author of four works of fiction, most recently The One-in-a-Million-Boy, which won a 2017 Nautilus Award (Gold) and the 2017 fiction prize from the New England Society in the City of New York. She also is the author of Any Bitter Thing which spent 21 weeks on the American Booksellers Association extended bestseller list and was named a Book Sense Top Ten pick. Her other fiction includes Ernie’s Ark and My Only Story, a finalist for the Kate Chopin Award.
Monica is also the author of When We Were the Kennedys, a memoir of her growing up in Mexico, Maine. The book won the Maine Literary Award for Memoir in 2013, and the Sarton Women's Literary Awards for Memoir in 2012.
Monica is also the author of When We Were the Kennedys, a memoir of her growing up in Mexico, Maine. The book won the Maine Literary Award for Memoir in 2013, and the Sarton Women's Literary Awards for Memoir in 2012.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 16,980 reviews
December 28, 2025
my only complaint: that this book wasn’t long enough!! adored.
unlikely friendships that turn into found family with some of the best characters i’ve ever read.
“i am a reader. i am intelligent. i have something worthy to contribute.” ❣️
unlikely friendships that turn into found family with some of the best characters i’ve ever read.
“i am a reader. i am intelligent. i have something worthy to contribute.” ❣️
May 18, 2024
“I am a reader. I am intelligent. I have something worthy to contribute.”
Twenty-two-year-old Violet Powell is released from prison after serving twenty-two months for a car crash that resulted in the death of the other driver. Violet, who was driving under the influence at the time, is consumed by guilt and finds it difficult to adjust to her new life in Portland - having lost her mother while serving her sentence and abandoned by her boyfriend, her remaining relatives distance themselves from her including her sister who sets her up in an apartment in Portland (away from her hometown of Abbott Falls, Maine) and tells her to stay away.
“I miss how Harriet was forever showing us how to read. How to look for shapes and layers. How to see that stories have a “meanwhile”—an important thing that’s happening while the rest of the story moves along.”
In prison, Violet had been part of a book club hosted by retired English teacher Harriet Larson. While searching for a book that she hadn’t been able to finish in prison, Violet is surprised to come across Harriet in a Portland bookstore. Harriet is sixty-four and a widow, whose children have settled abroad and her niece, who lives with her, will be moving out soon. Harriet has her share of regrets and often feels that she is underestimated by those around her. Harriet is a kind, compassionate soul who enjoys her time volunteering at the prison, giving the inmates a voice and a safe space to share their thoughts while discussing books.
“People set their husbands afire, they nurse their dying mothers, they rob demented old men, they sing songs that bring listeners to tears, they kill a woman while drunk on love and 86-proof. The line between this and that, you and her, us and them, the line is thin.”
Coincidentally, on the same day Violet meets Harriet she also encounters Frank Daigle, a sixty-eight-year-old retired machinist working as a handyman in the same bookstore who was also the husband of the woman who lost her life in the car crash. With his daughter married and settled, Frank lives alone in the home he shared with his late wife. Though he was aware of Violet’s early release from prison, he wasn’t prepared to see her in person or for the onslaught of emotions that would follow.
What follows is a transformative journey of catharsis, redemption and new beginnings.
"We are a continuum of human experience, neither the worst nor the best thing we have ever done. Or, more exactly, we are both the best thing and the worst thing we’ve ever done. We are all of it, all at once, all the time."
Whenever I see a book with the image of a stack of books/ a bookstore/ a library on the cover, I’m immediately drawn to it, but rarely have I picked up a book without perusing the blurb/ description or reading a review, more so if I’ve never read anything by the author in question. Strangely enough, How to Read a Book by Monica Wood was an exception and I went into this one blind.
Let me begin by saying that this book was not what I expected. But yes, it proved to be one of the best selections I’ve made recently because it was so much more than I had hoped it would be. This is the kind of story that stays with you long after you have turned the last page. The author writes beautifully, with insight and heart, and the way she addresses complex human emotions is both realistic and relatable. The narrative is presented from the perspectives of the three characters, the different threads of the story deftly woven into a compelling narrative that was hard to put down. Though I didn’t agree with all of her choices, I felt for Violet and was invested in her journey. Frank is an endearing character and I absolutely adored Harriet, but I must say that Ollie captured my heart! The segments about the parrots were informative and entertaining in equal measure and I appreciated the Author’s Note on the nature of the research referenced in this novel. The book club segments truly enriched the narrative, emphasizing the importance of empathy, kindness and how sharing perspectives on the books we read contribute to our understanding of the human condition. I enjoyed the literary references and found the discussions deeply thought-provoking.
“The writer writes the words. The given reader reads the words. And the book, the unique and unrepeatable book, doesn’t exist until the given reader meets the writer on the page.”
A heartwarming and evocative story about friendship and found family, kindness, self-acceptance, forgiveness and starting over and how books can motivate and inspire positive change, this story left me with a smile on my face and a lump in my throat! I couldn’t recommend it enough!
“Because life is the same as books, Misha. There’s a story and a meanwhile, and we get to say which is which.”
This was my first time reading this author, but it surely won’t be my last.
Many thanks to Mariner Books for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This novel was published on May 7, 2024.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
Twenty-two-year-old Violet Powell is released from prison after serving twenty-two months for a car crash that resulted in the death of the other driver. Violet, who was driving under the influence at the time, is consumed by guilt and finds it difficult to adjust to her new life in Portland - having lost her mother while serving her sentence and abandoned by her boyfriend, her remaining relatives distance themselves from her including her sister who sets her up in an apartment in Portland (away from her hometown of Abbott Falls, Maine) and tells her to stay away.
“I miss how Harriet was forever showing us how to read. How to look for shapes and layers. How to see that stories have a “meanwhile”—an important thing that’s happening while the rest of the story moves along.”
In prison, Violet had been part of a book club hosted by retired English teacher Harriet Larson. While searching for a book that she hadn’t been able to finish in prison, Violet is surprised to come across Harriet in a Portland bookstore. Harriet is sixty-four and a widow, whose children have settled abroad and her niece, who lives with her, will be moving out soon. Harriet has her share of regrets and often feels that she is underestimated by those around her. Harriet is a kind, compassionate soul who enjoys her time volunteering at the prison, giving the inmates a voice and a safe space to share their thoughts while discussing books.
“People set their husbands afire, they nurse their dying mothers, they rob demented old men, they sing songs that bring listeners to tears, they kill a woman while drunk on love and 86-proof. The line between this and that, you and her, us and them, the line is thin.”
Coincidentally, on the same day Violet meets Harriet she also encounters Frank Daigle, a sixty-eight-year-old retired machinist working as a handyman in the same bookstore who was also the husband of the woman who lost her life in the car crash. With his daughter married and settled, Frank lives alone in the home he shared with his late wife. Though he was aware of Violet’s early release from prison, he wasn’t prepared to see her in person or for the onslaught of emotions that would follow.
What follows is a transformative journey of catharsis, redemption and new beginnings.
"We are a continuum of human experience, neither the worst nor the best thing we have ever done. Or, more exactly, we are both the best thing and the worst thing we’ve ever done. We are all of it, all at once, all the time."
Whenever I see a book with the image of a stack of books/ a bookstore/ a library on the cover, I’m immediately drawn to it, but rarely have I picked up a book without perusing the blurb/ description or reading a review, more so if I’ve never read anything by the author in question. Strangely enough, How to Read a Book by Monica Wood was an exception and I went into this one blind.
Let me begin by saying that this book was not what I expected. But yes, it proved to be one of the best selections I’ve made recently because it was so much more than I had hoped it would be. This is the kind of story that stays with you long after you have turned the last page. The author writes beautifully, with insight and heart, and the way she addresses complex human emotions is both realistic and relatable. The narrative is presented from the perspectives of the three characters, the different threads of the story deftly woven into a compelling narrative that was hard to put down. Though I didn’t agree with all of her choices, I felt for Violet and was invested in her journey. Frank is an endearing character and I absolutely adored Harriet, but I must say that Ollie captured my heart! The segments about the parrots were informative and entertaining in equal measure and I appreciated the Author’s Note on the nature of the research referenced in this novel. The book club segments truly enriched the narrative, emphasizing the importance of empathy, kindness and how sharing perspectives on the books we read contribute to our understanding of the human condition. I enjoyed the literary references and found the discussions deeply thought-provoking.
“The writer writes the words. The given reader reads the words. And the book, the unique and unrepeatable book, doesn’t exist until the given reader meets the writer on the page.”
A heartwarming and evocative story about friendship and found family, kindness, self-acceptance, forgiveness and starting over and how books can motivate and inspire positive change, this story left me with a smile on my face and a lump in my throat! I couldn’t recommend it enough!
“Because life is the same as books, Misha. There’s a story and a meanwhile, and we get to say which is which.”
This was my first time reading this author, but it surely won’t be my last.
Many thanks to Mariner Books for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This novel was published on May 7, 2024.
Connect with me! ✏ Instagram ✏ My Blog ✏ The StoryGraph
May 27, 2024
The first half of this book is great, almost magical in the sense that it’s written in a complex and even surprising way that both makes sense and shocks a bit. Things take a turn in the absolute wrong direction when the main character, Violet, seemingly falls in love with her older, married boss out of nowhere. Cheesy sex scenes and dialogue ensue, even though I felt extremely uncomfortable in the MeToo era watching a young girl being preyed upon by a lecherous boss twice her age (and I wasn’t sure if the author wanted me to root for this drek or if I was to see how wrong it all was). It all comes together in an insanely rushed ending, which includes a strange “whole life overview” for Violet that is accomplished in all of 2 sentences.
Started off like an interesting Fredrik Bachman book and ended up a bit too Colleen Hoover for me. Any and all romance involving Violet was completely unnecessary to the more interesting story or redemption, forgiveness and second chances.
Started off like an interesting Fredrik Bachman book and ended up a bit too Colleen Hoover for me. Any and all romance involving Violet was completely unnecessary to the more interesting story or redemption, forgiveness and second chances.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2024
"Apologies require acceptance...But as I understand it, forgiveness flows in one direction only."
I absolutely loved this book. It is equally a story of found family, grief, loss, acceptance, forgiveness, and so much more.
Violet made a poor decision to drive under the influence and she killed a woman. Serving her prison sentence, she gets involved with a book club, run by retired teacher Harriet. These books and discussions are the most important part of the women's weeks, and Harriet shares a bit more of her life than she is supposed to. Violet is released after serving almost two years, set up in an apartment by her sister who wants nothing to do with her. At the local bookstore, she encounters Harriet, but she also comes face to face with Frank, the husband of the woman she killed. As these three people learn how to work through their individual problems, they discover more about life and each other.
It's really difficult to write a short synopsis of this book, because there's so much nuance. There are amazing grey parrots (which caused me to go on quite a tangent of looking up videos of how absolutely smart these birds are) and learning and growth. There were times that Violet frustrated me, but after a while I really understood that the years she spent in prison changed her emotional maturity. I did like how she eventually learned how to stand up for herself.
I also really liked how the different books were used as jumping off points for the growth of the characters. Particularly Spoon River Anthology, which is now on my TBR. I love books that explore second chances, and this book does that in such a unique way. It has the characters exploring what their lives mean and what they want to be remembered for.
This is such a heartfelt, lovely book that will really stay with me.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I absolutely loved this book. It is equally a story of found family, grief, loss, acceptance, forgiveness, and so much more.
Violet made a poor decision to drive under the influence and she killed a woman. Serving her prison sentence, she gets involved with a book club, run by retired teacher Harriet. These books and discussions are the most important part of the women's weeks, and Harriet shares a bit more of her life than she is supposed to. Violet is released after serving almost two years, set up in an apartment by her sister who wants nothing to do with her. At the local bookstore, she encounters Harriet, but she also comes face to face with Frank, the husband of the woman she killed. As these three people learn how to work through their individual problems, they discover more about life and each other.
It's really difficult to write a short synopsis of this book, because there's so much nuance. There are amazing grey parrots (which caused me to go on quite a tangent of looking up videos of how absolutely smart these birds are) and learning and growth. There were times that Violet frustrated me, but after a while I really understood that the years she spent in prison changed her emotional maturity. I did like how she eventually learned how to stand up for herself.
I also really liked how the different books were used as jumping off points for the growth of the characters. Particularly Spoon River Anthology, which is now on my TBR. I love books that explore second chances, and this book does that in such a unique way. It has the characters exploring what their lives mean and what they want to be remembered for.
This is such a heartfelt, lovely book that will really stay with me.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
February 3, 2026
If you like cozy fiction books I think you’d enjoy this!
We follow 3 characters going through completely different things, but all connect and relate to each other in some way.
I did enjoy seeing how these 3 characters were able to find each other & friendship/relationships along the way - I just wish we went a bit deeper emotionally with it all
There was one storyline that I think took up a bit too much plot of the book, and the pacing was slow at times, but it was a good read overall!
We follow 3 characters going through completely different things, but all connect and relate to each other in some way.
I did enjoy seeing how these 3 characters were able to find each other & friendship/relationships along the way - I just wish we went a bit deeper emotionally with it all
There was one storyline that I think took up a bit too much plot of the book, and the pacing was slow at times, but it was a good read overall!
September 8, 2024
What’s with this title? Honestly...two thumbs down.
I like to think as a reader, I know how to read. It could be interpreted as demeaning and condescending. Or, it could be what its intent is: read slower, think about what you are reading and the meaning in what you read.
Now, let me tell you what’s inside the cover.
A trio of characters with a history that intersects and brings them together.
Violet-the recently released 22year old criminal. Committed what could be seen as an unforgivable act. Harriet- the book club host at the jail known affectionately as Bookie. Frank- the man who works at the bookstore whose life would have changed dramatically with or without the tragedy.
Books are the common denominator here- the radius within which the three find themselves. And yes, there is discussion of books but the bigger message is about forgiveness, acceptance and 2nd chances.
A feel good story.
4⭐️
I like to think as a reader, I know how to read. It could be interpreted as demeaning and condescending. Or, it could be what its intent is: read slower, think about what you are reading and the meaning in what you read.
Now, let me tell you what’s inside the cover.
A trio of characters with a history that intersects and brings them together.
Violet-the recently released 22year old criminal. Committed what could be seen as an unforgivable act. Harriet- the book club host at the jail known affectionately as Bookie. Frank- the man who works at the bookstore whose life would have changed dramatically with or without the tragedy.
Books are the common denominator here- the radius within which the three find themselves. And yes, there is discussion of books but the bigger message is about forgiveness, acceptance and 2nd chances.
A feel good story.
4⭐️
January 20, 2024
If I waited, I could write a more coherent review. But instead I want to record the way this book made my heart feel full, and warm, and overflowing with light.
Few books manage to capture the human condition so clearly. Few stories maintain their realism while showing that life is hard. It is unfair. And it often takes more than it gives. But it DOES give. And there is good. And you find it in the most unusual places.
This book taught me love and compassion anew.
Each characters viewpoints revealed different aspects of being human. They were each unique and believable and real. And I love them all. (Especially Ollie).
Read the book.
Few books manage to capture the human condition so clearly. Few stories maintain their realism while showing that life is hard. It is unfair. And it often takes more than it gives. But it DOES give. And there is good. And you find it in the most unusual places.
This book taught me love and compassion anew.
Each characters viewpoints revealed different aspects of being human. They were each unique and believable and real. And I love them all. (Especially Ollie).
Read the book.
June 11, 2024
Honestly this is so disappointing.. I was SO excited to read this after reading numerous 5 star reviews, plus the plot seemed really interesting. I have to say that this book unfortunately is overhyped and I have a couple of complaints with this. The first half was super promising and I was flying through it, but everything started to decline starting in the second half.
Number 1: the random side plot with the scientist?
This was actually the most unnecessary plot point in the entire book. Why would the person who is trying so hard to be forgiven for her crime and start over with her life do something else that is really bad bro. Obvi not a crime but hooking up with your BOSS that is TWICE YOUR AGE😱 and MARRIED is foul😭😭😭
Number 2: please forgive me I love animals but the whole plot of the book becoming mainly about parrots was so random?? I was getting so annoyed because why was it about parrots what did they signify
Number 3: the 𝓯𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓴𝔂 parts in the book were so so unnecessary and weird.. I’d rather not read a page about 2 old people having fun!! it was actually revolting why am I reading about what’s under gma’s blouse🤧
Number 4: the ending was just like what? I genuinely had no idea what was going on. The epitaph thing is cool in concept and I understand what was trying to be done, but it wasn’t executed well and was just another unnecessary aspect of this book.
I’m lowkey raging because the first half of this was really really good. I loved the setting that the book set up, the characters were pretty likeable, and I was like “wow this book is so good!” The amount of disappointment the second half of the book brought is very unfortunate, not even sure that the first half would make up for it.
Edit 2 YEARS LATER:
Thanks everyone for giving your insight but I’m tired of being fact checked on a review I made (on a BOOK) 2 YEARS AGO😭 I don’t remember every detail of the book at this point and second of all, it’s just my opinion on something that is fictional. So no need to be hating so hard sorry if I offended you. Lastly thanks for the wishes that I will live to 65 because I hope I will ☺️ (comments are being turned off)
Number 1: the random side plot with the scientist?
This was actually the most unnecessary plot point in the entire book. Why would the person who is trying so hard to be forgiven for her crime and start over with her life do something else that is really bad bro. Obvi not a crime but hooking up with your BOSS that is TWICE YOUR AGE😱 and MARRIED is foul😭😭😭
Number 2: please forgive me I love animals but the whole plot of the book becoming mainly about parrots was so random?? I was getting so annoyed because why was it about parrots what did they signify
Number 3: the 𝓯𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓴𝔂 parts in the book were so so unnecessary and weird.. I’d rather not read a page about 2 old people having fun!! it was actually revolting why am I reading about what’s under gma’s blouse🤧
Number 4: the ending was just like what? I genuinely had no idea what was going on. The epitaph thing is cool in concept and I understand what was trying to be done, but it wasn’t executed well and was just another unnecessary aspect of this book.
I’m lowkey raging because the first half of this was really really good. I loved the setting that the book set up, the characters were pretty likeable, and I was like “wow this book is so good!” The amount of disappointment the second half of the book brought is very unfortunate, not even sure that the first half would make up for it.
Edit 2 YEARS LATER:
Thanks everyone for giving your insight but I’m tired of being fact checked on a review I made (on a BOOK) 2 YEARS AGO😭 I don’t remember every detail of the book at this point and second of all, it’s just my opinion on something that is fictional. So no need to be hating so hard sorry if I offended you. Lastly thanks for the wishes that I will live to 65 because I hope I will ☺️ (comments are being turned off)
March 5, 2025
“I am a reader. I am intelligent. I have something worthy to contribute.”
Be still my heart. ❤️🩹
How does one describe a book that leaves a reader with so many emotions? How do I share my reading journey with these 3 broken people; Violet, Harriet and Frank, who find something, not just through books, but through each other and their experiences – even though, it was something so unexpected for them?
Wood is a thoughtful writer who creates characters that are beautifully fleshed out and deeply felt. I first was introduced to her writing with her book, “The One-in-a-million boy.” Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
And, now I come here to this book. It is more than ‘how to read a book.’ It is an opportunity for all readers to feel the soul of a book through its pages. And, as we read, we also come to recognize that it leads us to such things as: how to find forgiveness, or love, or self-esteem, or connection.
This book is filled with sweet anecdotal moments that will wrap its readers in warmth, longing and healing. How can we not be affected in some small way by the narrative voices of Violet, Harriet and Frank?
Each has experiences they would rather not feel again. And, each deserves a second-chance at whatever life has in store for them, for completely different reasons. And, we as their readers, can become their cheerleaders. Knowing that as their lives intersect, something wonderful needs to happen, because we readers believe they deserve it, despite their pasts.
And those of us who have had the experience of being a part of a book club, may even appreciate the one that exists between these pages. I could even relate to the thought expressed… “I miss me in Book Club.”
“…in order for reading to become an exercise in empathy, it helps to think of all the characters in all the books as fellow creatures.”
Amen. Doesn’t it feel so much better when we appreciate and root for the characters that are presented to readers within the story?
“Is it possible to sum up a human life?”
I love that quote. Because it is so true. Where do we even begin to answer that question? Do we need to – will the characters?
This story resonates as Hope in so many ways. Hope for a better life. Hope for friendship. Hope for love. Hope for acceptance. Hope for new beginnings. And, it truly emulates the beauty of books and their magnificent stories and how they can affect us.
“Books won’t solve my problems.
No, but they give your problems perspective. They allow your problems to breathe.”
Oh yes. Breathe. Let’s breathe. And, in breathing we can also heal. This book has all the feels and moments to allow readers to do just that. With this book, readers can allow themselves the experience of meandering through these pages. And, take time to appreciate the small moments. Including the parrots, who bring their own level of fun, joy and whimsy to the story. (No spoilers from me.)
Be still my heart. ❤️🩹
How does one describe a book that leaves a reader with so many emotions? How do I share my reading journey with these 3 broken people; Violet, Harriet and Frank, who find something, not just through books, but through each other and their experiences – even though, it was something so unexpected for them?
Wood is a thoughtful writer who creates characters that are beautifully fleshed out and deeply felt. I first was introduced to her writing with her book, “The One-in-a-million boy.” Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
And, now I come here to this book. It is more than ‘how to read a book.’ It is an opportunity for all readers to feel the soul of a book through its pages. And, as we read, we also come to recognize that it leads us to such things as: how to find forgiveness, or love, or self-esteem, or connection.
This book is filled with sweet anecdotal moments that will wrap its readers in warmth, longing and healing. How can we not be affected in some small way by the narrative voices of Violet, Harriet and Frank?
Each has experiences they would rather not feel again. And, each deserves a second-chance at whatever life has in store for them, for completely different reasons. And, we as their readers, can become their cheerleaders. Knowing that as their lives intersect, something wonderful needs to happen, because we readers believe they deserve it, despite their pasts.
And those of us who have had the experience of being a part of a book club, may even appreciate the one that exists between these pages. I could even relate to the thought expressed… “I miss me in Book Club.”
“…in order for reading to become an exercise in empathy, it helps to think of all the characters in all the books as fellow creatures.”
Amen. Doesn’t it feel so much better when we appreciate and root for the characters that are presented to readers within the story?
“Is it possible to sum up a human life?”
I love that quote. Because it is so true. Where do we even begin to answer that question? Do we need to – will the characters?
This story resonates as Hope in so many ways. Hope for a better life. Hope for friendship. Hope for love. Hope for acceptance. Hope for new beginnings. And, it truly emulates the beauty of books and their magnificent stories and how they can affect us.
“Books won’t solve my problems.
No, but they give your problems perspective. They allow your problems to breathe.”
Oh yes. Breathe. Let’s breathe. And, in breathing we can also heal. This book has all the feels and moments to allow readers to do just that. With this book, readers can allow themselves the experience of meandering through these pages. And, take time to appreciate the small moments. Including the parrots, who bring their own level of fun, joy and whimsy to the story. (No spoilers from me.)
December 20, 2025
Violet Powell, 22, is being released from prison after serving nearly two years for vehicular manslaughter in the death of Lorraine Daigle. Harriet Larson, a retired English teacher, runs the book club at the women's prison where Violet is incarcerated. Frank Daigle, a retired machinist, continues to work through the memories of his complicated marriage to his late wife, Lorraine.
Neither Harriet nor Frank knows that Violet has been released from prison, or that she's living in Portland, Maine, where they both reside. One morning, their paths cross inside a bookstore, and continue to connect in unexpected ways...
How to Read a Book is a much more thought-provoking and introspective read than I anticipated. The characters of Violet, Harriet, and Frank were tied together through transition, and starting over at any point in your life, for whatever reason, is difficult. It's like climbing a mountain.
An immersive read, the audiobook is narrated by Eileen Stevens, whose voicing and recounting of the story enriched my reading experience. The audiobook is the perfect format for this story.
How to Read a Book is a beautifully written story that gets better the further you read. I would be remiss not to mention the African grey parrots in this story, especially dear sweet Ollie. There's an undeniable symbolic connection between them and Violet's gradual transformation. Violet’s final chapter was the perfect ending for this story!
4⭐
Neither Harriet nor Frank knows that Violet has been released from prison, or that she's living in Portland, Maine, where they both reside. One morning, their paths cross inside a bookstore, and continue to connect in unexpected ways...
How to Read a Book is a much more thought-provoking and introspective read than I anticipated. The characters of Violet, Harriet, and Frank were tied together through transition, and starting over at any point in your life, for whatever reason, is difficult. It's like climbing a mountain.
An immersive read, the audiobook is narrated by Eileen Stevens, whose voicing and recounting of the story enriched my reading experience. The audiobook is the perfect format for this story.
How to Read a Book is a beautifully written story that gets better the further you read. I would be remiss not to mention the African grey parrots in this story, especially dear sweet Ollie. There's an undeniable symbolic connection between them and Violet's gradual transformation. Violet’s final chapter was the perfect ending for this story!
4⭐
September 22, 2025
Wow!!! This book surprised me in all the best ways. I can’t believe I didn’t even know this book existed until late last week. I grabbed the audio with a credit and jumped right in. I listened in 24-hrs because it hooked me instantly. This story is about second chances, forgiveness, believing in each other again and ourselves, and how books can play an important role in our lives. I absolutely loved it.
February 27, 2025
This is the Modern Mrs Darcy Book Club March 2025 selection and a 2024 Summer Reading Guide Minimalist Pick. Monica Wood will join us for the discussion on March 27.
This poignant Maine novel centers three lonely people, two of whom are in their 60s, all connected by a terrible tragedy. Violet was just nineteen when, drunk and high, she caused the death of a beloved local teacher and was sentenced to twenty-eight months in prison. Harriet runs the book group at the women’s prison, where the inmates spend one precious hour a month finding comfort in tearing apart the classics. And Frank is the victim’s widower, who fills his time by volunteering his handyman services at the local bookstore. A deeply moving tale of redemption, second chances, and the power of books.
This poignant Maine novel centers three lonely people, two of whom are in their 60s, all connected by a terrible tragedy. Violet was just nineteen when, drunk and high, she caused the death of a beloved local teacher and was sentenced to twenty-eight months in prison. Harriet runs the book group at the women’s prison, where the inmates spend one precious hour a month finding comfort in tearing apart the classics. And Frank is the victim’s widower, who fills his time by volunteering his handyman services at the local bookstore. A deeply moving tale of redemption, second chances, and the power of books.
June 12, 2025
Maybe I read a different book. Maybe I don’t know how to read a book after all. I just know this wasn’t for me.
My takeaway from this book was more about how to train a bird than how to read a book. Maybe that should have been the title?
My takeaway from this book was more about how to train a bird than how to read a book. Maybe that should have been the title?
October 25, 2026
MY GOODNESS 😭
Human beings really are quite incredible. The level of human connection in this story touched my very soul. It demonstrates the true, honest, raw gift of grace 💝
Let me rewind ⏪ Have you ever picked up a book and thought: ‘the title doesn’t suit the story’? Honestly, the thought has never occurred to me before now. Imo, this book has the wrong title 🙈 When I began reading this book, I had no idea what it was about, I simply chose it *because* of the title. Thankfully, in this case that turned out to be a good thing…
Monica Wood’s ‘How to Read a Book’ is a beautifully written story about agonising grief, second chances, human connection, and of course, reading 📖 Told from three POV, this book follows the life of a young woman who has recently been released from prison, the husband of the woman she killed, and the woman who leads the prison book club. Over the course of the story we get a deep insight into each of their lives and the way books can connect people who otherwise would never cross paths.
Moving. Heartfelt. Profound 🥲
Twenty-two year old Violet Powell, newly released from prison after killing someone in a drink-driving crash, is looking for a new start on the ‘Outs’.
Harriet Larson, a retired English teacher, runs the prison book club. She believes that books can shine a light during our darkest hours.
Frank Daigle, a bookshop handyman, husband to the woman Violet killed. His quiet grief launches itself into the world resulting in an encounter that will connect the three in a way none of them expected….
I absolutely ADORED every single element of this book! I loved it so much that I don’t know how to put into words the emotions this book made me feel. One thing is certain: it reaffirmed my faith in human kind, and I personally think that in this day and age that is something truly special 💝
“You have paid your debt, Violet, and now you have every right to live your life.” 💖
There is an incredible warmth and heartfelt tone to this book. The language is so well considered. Each sentence holds meaning, yet it flows and reads effortlessly. Wood also portrays a great deal of tenderness and love through the relationships Violet builds with Harriet and Frank. Few books manage to show such a deep level of empathy for humankind as Wood does here. Once the initial relationships had been established, and I hit the 65% mark, I found myself slowing down, wanting to savour every moment, interaction, and emotion.
There were so many different threads to this book, perfectly interwoven with each other. I loved the prison book club element to the story. It was such a unique concept, adding interesting scenes and characters to the novel. Furthermore, these scenes opened up dialogue about literature which was fascinating in itself. If like me you love reading about book clubs, libraries, and reading communities will most likely enjoy this aspect.
"Every week, they began with an invocation: I am a reader. I am intelligent. I have something worthy to contribute." 📖
While we get a deep insight into all three characters, I feel like this is ultimately Violet's story. Witnessing her being released from prison, taking in the sights and sounds of the world again, building new relationships, dealing with old ones, and gaining employment were just a few of the obstacles she had to face. It was really quite fascinating seeing how she overcame each hurdle but moreover, it opened my eyes to all the struggles one faces post-imprisonment. I also really appreciated how the end of her story felt hopeful without being ‘perfect’. The final chapter was so full of genuine, raw, and honest life.
"Books won't solve my problems, Harriet...No, but they give your problems perspective. They allow your problems to breathe." 📚
Overall, this is a deeply moving novel about forgiveness, unlikely friendships, and the life-changing power of sharing stories. This story strikes a beautiful balance between quiet emotional growth and unexpected scenes that will keep you on your toes. Ultimately, Monica Wood explores the decisions that define a life and the kindnesses that make life worth living. Easily one of my favourite novels of 2026!
"Even the least eventful life holds an avalanche of stories. Any one of mine would give you a fair impression of who I was and how I lived. But the one I chose—the one that now composes this epitaph—isn’t a story at all. It’s what Harriet would call the meanwhile, the important thing that was happening while the rest of the story moved along.
My name was Violet Powell.
I took a life. I lived and died.
Meanwhile, I was loved." 🥹💖✨
5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Human beings really are quite incredible. The level of human connection in this story touched my very soul. It demonstrates the true, honest, raw gift of grace 💝
Let me rewind ⏪ Have you ever picked up a book and thought: ‘the title doesn’t suit the story’? Honestly, the thought has never occurred to me before now. Imo, this book has the wrong title 🙈 When I began reading this book, I had no idea what it was about, I simply chose it *because* of the title. Thankfully, in this case that turned out to be a good thing…
Monica Wood’s ‘How to Read a Book’ is a beautifully written story about agonising grief, second chances, human connection, and of course, reading 📖 Told from three POV, this book follows the life of a young woman who has recently been released from prison, the husband of the woman she killed, and the woman who leads the prison book club. Over the course of the story we get a deep insight into each of their lives and the way books can connect people who otherwise would never cross paths.
Moving. Heartfelt. Profound 🥲
Twenty-two year old Violet Powell, newly released from prison after killing someone in a drink-driving crash, is looking for a new start on the ‘Outs’.
Harriet Larson, a retired English teacher, runs the prison book club. She believes that books can shine a light during our darkest hours.
Frank Daigle, a bookshop handyman, husband to the woman Violet killed. His quiet grief launches itself into the world resulting in an encounter that will connect the three in a way none of them expected….
I absolutely ADORED every single element of this book! I loved it so much that I don’t know how to put into words the emotions this book made me feel. One thing is certain: it reaffirmed my faith in human kind, and I personally think that in this day and age that is something truly special 💝
“You have paid your debt, Violet, and now you have every right to live your life.” 💖
There is an incredible warmth and heartfelt tone to this book. The language is so well considered. Each sentence holds meaning, yet it flows and reads effortlessly. Wood also portrays a great deal of tenderness and love through the relationships Violet builds with Harriet and Frank. Few books manage to show such a deep level of empathy for humankind as Wood does here. Once the initial relationships had been established, and I hit the 65% mark, I found myself slowing down, wanting to savour every moment, interaction, and emotion.
There were so many different threads to this book, perfectly interwoven with each other. I loved the prison book club element to the story. It was such a unique concept, adding interesting scenes and characters to the novel. Furthermore, these scenes opened up dialogue about literature which was fascinating in itself. If like me you love reading about book clubs, libraries, and reading communities will most likely enjoy this aspect.
"Every week, they began with an invocation: I am a reader. I am intelligent. I have something worthy to contribute." 📖
While we get a deep insight into all three characters, I feel like this is ultimately Violet's story. Witnessing her being released from prison, taking in the sights and sounds of the world again, building new relationships, dealing with old ones, and gaining employment were just a few of the obstacles she had to face. It was really quite fascinating seeing how she overcame each hurdle but moreover, it opened my eyes to all the struggles one faces post-imprisonment. I also really appreciated how the end of her story felt hopeful without being ‘perfect’. The final chapter was so full of genuine, raw, and honest life.
"Books won't solve my problems, Harriet...No, but they give your problems perspective. They allow your problems to breathe." 📚
Overall, this is a deeply moving novel about forgiveness, unlikely friendships, and the life-changing power of sharing stories. This story strikes a beautiful balance between quiet emotional growth and unexpected scenes that will keep you on your toes. Ultimately, Monica Wood explores the decisions that define a life and the kindnesses that make life worth living. Easily one of my favourite novels of 2026!
"Even the least eventful life holds an avalanche of stories. Any one of mine would give you a fair impression of who I was and how I lived. But the one I chose—the one that now composes this epitaph—isn’t a story at all. It’s what Harriet would call the meanwhile, the important thing that was happening while the rest of the story moved along.
My name was Violet Powell.
I took a life. I lived and died.
Meanwhile, I was loved." 🥹💖✨
5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
October 27, 2024
A love letter to books, this is delightful, heartwarming read on the transformative power of books and reading.
The novel opens with 12 incarcerated women who are part of a book club, led by retired librarian, Harriet. I loved their book discussions and getting hints into the women’s’ lives and what led them to prison. Harriet deftly guides the women on how to approach a story and the characters as they read. (A lesson we can all use!)
One on the inmates, 22-year-old Violet, is released. She’s struggling and dearly misses Harriet and the book group. Circumstances cause their paths to cross again. Making things more complicated is that Harriet’s new friend Frank, is the husband of the woman who was killed by Violet in the drunk driving incident that sent her to prison.
What follows is a story of second chances, found family and the power of friendship and forgiveness. I appreciated that the author’s characters are all too human and flawed, and often make bad choices. The author approaches this with grace and humor, but doesn't shy away from tackling difficult issues.
I also loved that the characters ranged in age from 20s to 60s, and there is even a romance featuring an older couple. Violet’s work with parrots was fun and fascinating, and every single side character was compelling. As the character’s lives intersect the reader is in for a treat that will leave you with a smile on your face and a lump in your throat.
Don’t miss this one!
The novel opens with 12 incarcerated women who are part of a book club, led by retired librarian, Harriet. I loved their book discussions and getting hints into the women’s’ lives and what led them to prison. Harriet deftly guides the women on how to approach a story and the characters as they read. (A lesson we can all use!)
One on the inmates, 22-year-old Violet, is released. She’s struggling and dearly misses Harriet and the book group. Circumstances cause their paths to cross again. Making things more complicated is that Harriet’s new friend Frank, is the husband of the woman who was killed by Violet in the drunk driving incident that sent her to prison.
What follows is a story of second chances, found family and the power of friendship and forgiveness. I appreciated that the author’s characters are all too human and flawed, and often make bad choices. The author approaches this with grace and humor, but doesn't shy away from tackling difficult issues.
I also loved that the characters ranged in age from 20s to 60s, and there is even a romance featuring an older couple. Violet’s work with parrots was fun and fascinating, and every single side character was compelling. As the character’s lives intersect the reader is in for a treat that will leave you with a smile on your face and a lump in your throat.
Don’t miss this one!
October 25, 2024
I listened to How to Read a Book and was immediately captivated! It starts with twelve incarcerated women who are part of a weekly book club led by a volunteer, Harriet. The comments, questions, jokes, and perspectives about each book are hilarious and at times, troubling and poignant.
Violet is released from prison early due to good behavior and struggles to find a job. She is hired by a Russian bird scientist and is responsible for taking care of several unique birds.
This book is about the intersection of several different people's lives. Forgiveness, compassion, understanding, and clarity are key elements of this memorable journey.
Violet is released from prison early due to good behavior and struggles to find a job. She is hired by a Russian bird scientist and is responsible for taking care of several unique birds.
This book is about the intersection of several different people's lives. Forgiveness, compassion, understanding, and clarity are key elements of this memorable journey.
December 5, 2024
Violet is released from prison after a fatal drunk driving accident. She has limited family connections and is racked with guilt about what she’s done.
As she attempts to readjust to civilian life, Violet is surprised by the kindness of others, including Harriet, an older woman and former teacher who ran the book club at the prison where Violet was. Harriet is a widow and her niece is moving away for college.
Violet also encounters Frank, who works at the local bookstore and is now a widower as a result of Violet’s accident. It’s safe to say Frank didn’t expect to see Violet either and is still coming to terms with his marriage, different than what it may have seemed on the surface.
How to Read a Book a story with several themes related to family in its various forms, guilt, forgiveness, and friendship. The primary message being that people are more than their worst mistake. I felt for Violet, Harriet, and Frank as they faced their emotional challenges. I didn’t love the ending (though I didn’t hate it either). I enjoyed the story overall and especially liked the reading theme — 3.5 stars
Thank you to Netgalley and Mariner Books for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
As she attempts to readjust to civilian life, Violet is surprised by the kindness of others, including Harriet, an older woman and former teacher who ran the book club at the prison where Violet was. Harriet is a widow and her niece is moving away for college.
Violet also encounters Frank, who works at the local bookstore and is now a widower as a result of Violet’s accident. It’s safe to say Frank didn’t expect to see Violet either and is still coming to terms with his marriage, different than what it may have seemed on the surface.
How to Read a Book a story with several themes related to family in its various forms, guilt, forgiveness, and friendship. The primary message being that people are more than their worst mistake. I felt for Violet, Harriet, and Frank as they faced their emotional challenges. I didn’t love the ending (though I didn’t hate it either). I enjoyed the story overall and especially liked the reading theme — 3.5 stars
Thank you to Netgalley and Mariner Books for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2024
The best part of this book was Ollie the parrot.
July 23, 2024
How to describe "How to Read A Book":
It's a refreshingly different and heartwarming tale of deeply flawed individuals, new beginnings, forgiveness, perseverance, and resilience.
It's a "Fall Down Seven Times, Stand Up Eight" kind of book.
And it's also a commentary on how life can horrifically change in seconds, as well as the power of positive change.
I especially enjoyed the author's well-crafted epilogue.
I listened to the audiobook read by Eileen Stevens, who did an outstanding job with the narration.
Since the book unfolded from multiple POVs, a full-cast audiobook narration would have been preferred.
4.5 stars, rounded up.
April 21, 2026
4+
I thoroughly enjoyed this!
A feel good story..
Three lives entangled by a tragedy.. they all come together beautifully, each of their stories told in alternating chapters.
A fast and lovely read!
I did not remember that I had read this author’s
The One in A Million Boy and loved it!
I thoroughly enjoyed this!
A feel good story..
Three lives entangled by a tragedy.. they all come together beautifully, each of their stories told in alternating chapters.
A fast and lovely read!
I did not remember that I had read this author’s
The One in A Million Boy and loved it!
Did Not Finish
June 26, 2026Not sure why i couldn’t get into it, but every time I tried I got drowsy.
July 28, 2024
3.5 stars, rounded down for that time the author described a walnut as "juicy".
All in all, this book is FINE. It's heartwarming, and sweet, and comfortingly predictable. It's a literary-themed Hallmark movie in book form. With parrots.
Thank GOD the "romance" between Violet and the professor (I can't remember his name) was
Ok, romance rant over. It turned out FINE in the end. Not great, but fine. And I think that sums up my general feeling for this book. It didn't wow me, I didn't find it particularly unique, but it was....fine. I know exactly which library patrons to recommend this one to.
All in all, this book is FINE. It's heartwarming, and sweet, and comfortingly predictable. It's a literary-themed Hallmark movie in book form. With parrots.
Thank GOD the "romance" between Violet and the professor (I can't remember his name) was
Ok, romance rant over. It turned out FINE in the end. Not great, but fine. And I think that sums up my general feeling for this book. It didn't wow me, I didn't find it particularly unique, but it was....fine. I know exactly which library patrons to recommend this one to.
June 25, 2024
This book is ultimately about forgiveness. But I can’t forgive the author for putting the main character, a young woman just out of prison, into a sexual relationship with her boss, who we know is married. This plot twist happens in the last third of the book. I was enjoying the story up until this point, and then I couldn’t wait for the book to end. I’m also disappointed about the ending. I personally don’t understand the high ratings for this book, but I guess that is the beauty of reading. Everyone likes different stories. This ultimately was not the story for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2024
not at all what i expected and a great new author to me. loved it
If you are looking for that warm hearted, feel good story to finish out the year I highly recommend this book. There is a lot less about how to read and more about what to read, and the lessons that can be learned from sticking one's nose and mind in a good book.
“The problem with retrospect is it never shows up beforehand.”
This book is primarily about 3 people. Two older and one younger and a coming of age for all.
Voilet--22 and just released from prison for a drunk driving accident which resulted in the death of Frank's wife.
Frank-64 and working as a handy man at a local bookstore
Harriet--63 a widow and leads the book group at the prison where Violet was imprisoned.
And then there are the parrots.
There is a lot of rough going for all in this book, wrong impressions, wrong conclusions and not a few mistakes by one and all.
4.5 rounded up and as I was sorry when it ended. A new favorite author.
If you are looking for that warm hearted, feel good story to finish out the year I highly recommend this book. There is a lot less about how to read and more about what to read, and the lessons that can be learned from sticking one's nose and mind in a good book.
“The problem with retrospect is it never shows up beforehand.”
This book is primarily about 3 people. Two older and one younger and a coming of age for all.
Voilet--22 and just released from prison for a drunk driving accident which resulted in the death of Frank's wife.
Frank-64 and working as a handy man at a local bookstore
Harriet--63 a widow and leads the book group at the prison where Violet was imprisoned.
And then there are the parrots.
There is a lot of rough going for all in this book, wrong impressions, wrong conclusions and not a few mistakes by one and all.
4.5 rounded up and as I was sorry when it ended. A new favorite author.
January 12, 2026
Thanks to my good ol' library for having a copy of this book available! ☺️
A story about second chances, forgiveness, acceptance, and of course, BOOKS.
This book was a solid 4, but the ending really did me in. 5 stars ✨
I adored Violet, despite her flaws and mistakes. This is a slow burn and leans more toward literary fiction, but it's truly a story you can get lost in. The characters felt so real, and you really feel as though you are growing alongside them.
A story about second chances, forgiveness, acceptance, and of course, BOOKS.
This book was a solid 4, but the ending really did me in. 5 stars ✨
I adored Violet, despite her flaws and mistakes. This is a slow burn and leans more toward literary fiction, but it's truly a story you can get lost in. The characters felt so real, and you really feel as though you are growing alongside them.
May 30, 2026
It's been a long time since I read Monica Wood's other fine book, The One in a Million Boy. If there is a one thing of the many that I loved about it, outside of the great emotion, it would be the make up of it's characters. I often speak of characters. It's how I relate, and so the same goes here in How to Read a Book. The title really gives no hint as to what the story is about, not until you open the pages, and then it becomes much more than the group people who read together in this unusual, but very necessary book club of women – for all of us, in all places learn something from reading. The main focus becomes the second-chance lives of three characters, two who are connected through the book club, and two through a life altering event. On a course of converging you'd expect conflict, instead there are places of forgiveness and redemption. Those themes are a little bit, or maybe even a lot, like her other book I had read. Not at all the same story, because it's probable that Monica Wood is ever evolving in her stories, yet constant in hope and optimism.
December 13, 2024
Maybe I should up this to 5 stars, because of that wonderful last chapter.
I often complain that a lot of contemporary authors just don't excite me these days. I have a few that don't bore me, and that's because they write about real people instead of niche characters. Millennial, Gen Xers, Gen Zers, teens, young marrieds....been there , done that as we Baby Boomers say. I don't care about groups and mindsets, but I do love a great story about real people living real lives because I can connect. I have a few new to me authors that do that. David Nicholls, Ethan Joelle, Maggie O'Farrell, and now I'm adding Monica Wood to that group.
I had initially nixed adding this book to my TBR, because it seemed it might be a cutesy addition to the current trend of book store settings. A few trusted reviewers were giving it very high marks, so I borrowed it from my library to check it out. It started with Harriet, a retired English teacher who voluntarily conducted a book club in a woman's prison. She struggled with finding something to resonate with these tough ladies. Violet is a young woman doing time for a drunk driving accident in which a woman was killed. She gets an early release and has to start a new life. Frank is our third narrator, the husband of the woman in the accident. These three people accidentally meet in a bookstore one day, setting off a chain of events that kept me reading and caring and relating til the last page.
And there are parrots!
I often complain that a lot of contemporary authors just don't excite me these days. I have a few that don't bore me, and that's because they write about real people instead of niche characters. Millennial, Gen Xers, Gen Zers, teens, young marrieds....been there , done that as we Baby Boomers say. I don't care about groups and mindsets, but I do love a great story about real people living real lives because I can connect. I have a few new to me authors that do that. David Nicholls, Ethan Joelle, Maggie O'Farrell, and now I'm adding Monica Wood to that group.
I had initially nixed adding this book to my TBR, because it seemed it might be a cutesy addition to the current trend of book store settings. A few trusted reviewers were giving it very high marks, so I borrowed it from my library to check it out. It started with Harriet, a retired English teacher who voluntarily conducted a book club in a woman's prison. She struggled with finding something to resonate with these tough ladies. Violet is a young woman doing time for a drunk driving accident in which a woman was killed. She gets an early release and has to start a new life. Frank is our third narrator, the husband of the woman in the accident. These three people accidentally meet in a bookstore one day, setting off a chain of events that kept me reading and caring and relating til the last page.
And there are parrots!
February 12, 2026
4⭐️
This was excellent, with great characters.
I am a reader. I am intelligent. I have something valuable to contribute.
This was excellent, with great characters.
I am a reader. I am intelligent. I have something valuable to contribute.
June 7, 2026
Uplifting fiction showcasing the power of books (something I believe in with my whole heart). What begins as a book club uniting incarcerated women and the woman who runs the book club develops into a much bigger story about second chances, forgiveness, and found family. The MC, Violet, seems incredibly naive at times, especially for someone who experienced nearly two years of incarceration, and the idea that all the churchgoing characters were automatically bad was a bit much. I also was unconvinced by Violet's infatuation with her boss, but I loved her relationship with the parrots she works with. I also appreciated the mature romance between the Book Lady (Harriet) and Frank. The novel's nod to poetry is a nice touch too.
September 23, 2024
I’m going to write a super thorough review that’s mostly so I don’t forget any points I want to make about this book in book club. This book had so much potential but I think it missed the mark for me in a few ways. I’ll start with the negative:
- I don’t think it’s realistic that Violet could kill a woman while drunk driving and be so easily forgiven by literally everyone (except her own sister who wasn’t even pressed about the DUI but rather the “killing” of their mom who had cancer…?). Sure she was pressured into driving because of a bad boyfriend, but that doesn’t excuse her actions and choice as an adult to do it. Blaming the boyfriend alone resulted in nobody holding Violet accountable and those who did, seemed like bad guys in the story.
- I don’t love that the book made the victim of the DUI accident out to be a less than likable character with her infidelity. It was an easy way out of the problem that was making Violet appear like someone the reader should want to support. Because of this, Violet didn’t even have to go through actual character growth and I was disappointed.
- I was upset that Violet spent time in prison for letting a man influence her into making bad decisions and then the first thing she does when she’s out: let herself be manipulated by a man into doing something bad. Again, there’s no character development and actually makes me sympathize with Violet less because she knew this man was married and didn’t care until she saw his wife was pregnant…Violet is not a girl’s girl.
- When Frank confronts Violet about sleeping with a married man, she literally says to him (about the wife), “I crashed into her life like I was drunk at the wheel.” ARE YOU KIDDING ME. SHE KILLED FRANK’S WIFE BY DRUNK DRIVING. AND EVERYONE IS JUST OKAY WITH THIS ANALOGY?!?! And then, when Violet is presented with the opportunity to do the right thing and talk to the professor’s wife or whatever she could’ve done, she chooses to blackmail the guy and steal his bird. While I think he was a bad guy, two wrongs don’t make a right here and yet again, we see no character development.
Ending on a good note, my positives for the book include the accurate portrayal of Maine by someone who’s clearly spent time here unlike most people who write about this state. I also enjoyed the symbolism of having a girl who was just released from prison working in a lab with caged birds. Overall, the book was a quick and easy read and I enjoyed most of it. But the parts that I didn’t like, I just really didn’t like.
- I don’t think it’s realistic that Violet could kill a woman while drunk driving and be so easily forgiven by literally everyone (except her own sister who wasn’t even pressed about the DUI but rather the “killing” of their mom who had cancer…?). Sure she was pressured into driving because of a bad boyfriend, but that doesn’t excuse her actions and choice as an adult to do it. Blaming the boyfriend alone resulted in nobody holding Violet accountable and those who did, seemed like bad guys in the story.
- I don’t love that the book made the victim of the DUI accident out to be a less than likable character with her infidelity. It was an easy way out of the problem that was making Violet appear like someone the reader should want to support. Because of this, Violet didn’t even have to go through actual character growth and I was disappointed.
- I was upset that Violet spent time in prison for letting a man influence her into making bad decisions and then the first thing she does when she’s out: let herself be manipulated by a man into doing something bad. Again, there’s no character development and actually makes me sympathize with Violet less because she knew this man was married and didn’t care until she saw his wife was pregnant…Violet is not a girl’s girl.
- When Frank confronts Violet about sleeping with a married man, she literally says to him (about the wife), “I crashed into her life like I was drunk at the wheel.” ARE YOU KIDDING ME. SHE KILLED FRANK’S WIFE BY DRUNK DRIVING. AND EVERYONE IS JUST OKAY WITH THIS ANALOGY?!?! And then, when Violet is presented with the opportunity to do the right thing and talk to the professor’s wife or whatever she could’ve done, she chooses to blackmail the guy and steal his bird. While I think he was a bad guy, two wrongs don’t make a right here and yet again, we see no character development.
Ending on a good note, my positives for the book include the accurate portrayal of Maine by someone who’s clearly spent time here unlike most people who write about this state. I also enjoyed the symbolism of having a girl who was just released from prison working in a lab with caged birds. Overall, the book was a quick and easy read and I enjoyed most of it. But the parts that I didn’t like, I just really didn’t like.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 16,980 reviews