Local Author Monica Wood Discusses Her New Novel

Wood has written a powerful story of redemption and new beginnings.

Photo: Monica Wood Facebook page

By Brian Boisvert

Thanks to a generous grant from the Nasson Alumni Association, the Springvale Public Library and Louis B. Goodall Memorial Library are presenting local book lovers with an opportunity to meet Monica Wood, acclaimed Maine author. Wood will be discussing her latest novel, How to Read a Book, at the Nasson Community Center (457 Main St., Springvale) on July 31 at 6:00 pm.

Monica Wood is an accomplished novelist, memoirist, and playwright. Born in 1953, she grew up in Mexico, Maine, a setting that influences many of her works. Her accolades include the 2024 Sara Josepha Hale Award and the 2019 Maine Humanities Council Carlson Prize. Among her literary achievements are the national bestseller Any Bitter Thing and The One-in-a-Million Boy. Her narrative When We Were the Kennedys: A Memoir from Mexico, Maine was a New England bestseller and an Oprah Magazine summer reading pick. Wood is also a successful playwright, whose debut play Papermaker set the Portland Stage’s all-time attendance record.

How to Read a Book delves into the transformative power of literature and the resilience of the human spirit. The story follows Violet, a woman recently released from prison after a tragic event. Lost and grappling with guilt, Violet encounters Harriet, a kind woman who led the book club in the prison. Their reunion reignites a connection forged through shared experiences and a love of reading.

As the narrative unfolds, Violet confronts societal judgment and the weight of her past. She also encounters Frank, a retired machinist who works as a handyman at a bookstore. Together, the three characters form an unlikely and unexpected bond, finding solace and understanding in their shared experiences.

The novel has garnered rave reviews for its themes of forgiveness, second chances, and the power of literature to heal and connect. People Magazine calls it “an utter gem; funny, sweet and moving,” while the New York Times describes it as “a charming, openhearted novel, deceptively easy to read but layered with sharp observations, hard truths and rich ideas.”

Readers still have time to dive into this remarkable novel before the event. The library has ordered extra copies, including large print and audio versions, to ensure everyone can read it. You can call or visit the Goodall or Springvale library to reserve your copy, and books will also be available for purchase at the discussion. Whether you’re a book club member or simply enjoy a good read, this heartwarming and thought-provoking novel is sure to resonate with you.

To reserve your spot at the upcoming author discussion, please visit https://tinyurl.com/monicawoodevent Don’t miss this opportunity to meet a talented local author and explore the transformative power of books!