How to Read a Book

Author: Monica Wood

Maine

Published on 24 September 2026 by HarperCollins Publishers (HarperCollins) in the United Kingdom.

Paperback | 288 pages
198 x 129 | 200g

The runaway international word-of-mouth bestseller – an uplifting and heartfelt novel, perfect for fans of The Correspondent

'A beautiful, big-hearted treasure of a novel.' Lily King

One bookshop. A thousand ways to rewrite a life.

When Violet Powell is newly released from prison after killing someone in a drink-driving crash, she longs for a chance to start over.

Harriet Larson believes stories can light a way through the loneliest chapters. Now she must hold onto that belief more than ever.

Frank Daigle works as a handyman in the bookshop. His quiet grief connects them in ways none of them anticipated.

As their lives intertwine among the bookshelves, small acts of kindness open the door to healing. Can forgiveness grow where it’s least expected?

'A reminder that goodness, and books, can still win in this world.' New York Times Book Review

'A deeply humane and touching novel; highly recommended for book clubs and fans of Shelby Van Pelt's Remarkably Bright Creatures.' Booklist