How to Read a Book

Violet wants to adopt the cat, but Baker says she must fill out an adoption form, which requires her to have lived somewhere for at least six months. Harriet protests in Violet’s defense, claiming she is a former student who just moved to the area. Marnie intervenes and suggests that they might be able to skirt the rules if Harriet can be a reference. Suddenly, Harriet becomes aware of a strange sound emanating inside the store. She looks up to see Frank frozen on the ladder and making a low, moaning sound. Violet looks up at Frank, and they both freeze. Frank tumbles from the ladder, and Harriet quickly whisks Violet out of the store. 

Violet thinks about why she never had sex in prison. She was too guilt-ridden, and she never could distinguish sexual desire from the human need for touch. Harriet hugs Violet close as she weeps. Harriet ushers Violet outside to calm down and then walks her home. Harriet cooks Violet a meal and serves her tea while Violet explains Frank’s reaction. Harriet listens empathetically as Violet shares about the trial and the guilt she has for killing Frank’s wife, who was a kindergarten teacher. Harriet shares her life story with Violet, including how she met Lou and became a college student after his death.