Once you have read the book, you will understand the cover - which is the wrong way round, but that doesn't detract from this thoroughly enjoyable, lovely book. Sally Page has just enough main characters, each one a fully rounded individual so that it is easy to follow them. The three main characters all seem to be wanting to find their way in life, as so many of us do. They are so different from each other, but blend together more and more as their contact and experiences grow. There are great cameos, like the ghosts in the cemetery who are allowed out one night a year, and get together for a blether. There are the people who come into the shop. They may sound a little extreme, but then they are typical of the public that you do encounter in shops. The Reverend Ruth is a vicar escaping from the "blood poo and vomit" of parish life, with many hilarious stories from her. The various threads running through this book are pens, stationery, friendship, family, community, and there is a heart warming love story too. Reading this will make you laugh, soul-search, wonder, feel happy, and sometimes sad. A very enjoyable comforting read.