Help bring books to people in prison!

My bookshelf makes me feel undaunted.

Whenever I face a challenge, I find answers in books. A few examples:

• Meditations for Mortals (Oliver Burkeman) helped me accept that the only way to finally get "on top of it all" is to let go of this idea in the first place
• How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk (Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish) helped me figure out how to do exactly that
• When Things Fall Apart (Pema Chodron) helped me see that pain isn't wasted but can be meaningful

And whether fiction or nonfiction is your kind of thing, the idea is the same: Millennia of people have faced the same struggles we're facing and have passed on their wisdom in books. It would be silly not to take advantage of it!

For people in prison, though, getting a book can be surprisingly difficult. Mail rules are strict, prison libraries are often limited, and many people don’t have the money to buy books. At the same time, books can be one of the only ways to learn, study, and stay connected to the world—especially since there’s no internet access.

That's why for my 40th birthday, I'm fundraising for the Prison Book Program, which sends free books to people in prison across the country. Instead of gifts, I'm asking for a donation here on this platform and/or your time.

Saturday, March 21st, 9-12 PM United First Parish Church, 1306 Hancock Street (Basement), Quincy, MA 02169

We'll read letters from people in prison, find the books they're asking for on our shelves, and pack them up to ship. No experience needed, kids welcome. Just show up!