Summary

Chapter one opens with Clay Jannon on a book ladder describing the shelves. He quickly backs up the story and tells the reader that he is recently unemployed after the place where he was working – NewBagel – folded during the recession. A web designer, he was able to keep his MacBook and Twitter account, but received no severance. His friends (designers) have secured better, more high-profile jobs and Clay feels behind the curve. While out for a walk in San Francisco, where he lives, he spots a help wanted sign at Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore. He applies for the late shift and gets the job. The bookstore is narrow with a bell over the door. It’s three-stories high with ladders. He meets Penumbra, an older man in a cardigan. During their initial chat, Penumbra asked clay to tell him about a...