A Tale With a Storybook Ending

(CBS)  They met on Boston Common - two men with little in common. One a well-heeled, high-powered attorney, the other a street-schooled, often ignored homeless person.

Rob slept on a sidewalk. Peter had a swank condo in the Back Bay. But every morning they would cross paths here in the park and over the course of several months, actually became good friends, reports CBS News correspondent Steve Hartman.

How did that happen? Such contrasting men, living such disparate lives. You'd think after the weather and box scores they'd run out of things to talk about. And indeed, they did run out.

"So I gave Robert a copy of a book I really loved called 'Water for Elephants' and we would talk about that," Peter said.

Discussing the book became their way of connecting, and a friendship was born.

"And then one day I asked him, 'What'd you do with the book?' and he said, 'I gave it to a fella over there,'" Peter said.

"I knew there were a lot of people who read," Rob said.

"So it occurred to us that there was an interest out here that could draw people together," Peter said.

"You'd be surprised by how many people actually read," Rob said.

About a year ago, Peter and Ron started the Homeless Book Club. The week CBS News visited, the group was dissecting a group of short stories by O'Henry. They meet every Tuesday in a church conference room. Peter buys the books. In the beginning he offered to bring in lunch too, but the members said "no thanks." They wanted this to be about more than just another free lunch.

"For me it's a place to go and escape," said Donald, a member.

"And to question things," said Betsey, another member.

"Yeah, I feel more sophisticated," said Jamie, a member, laughing.

Unlike the others, Jamie, who lives in a rooming house, says he never used to be a reader. His addictions were the priority.

"I picked up the first book and started reading it and I couldn't put it down," Jamie said.

Addicted still, only now, to literature.

"If I keep reading, and keeping my mind occupied, I'm less likely to hurt myself in life," Jamie said.

Testimonials like that are now inspiring other people in other cities, even other countries, to start putting together their own homeless book clubs.

And as for the homeless man who started it all - Rob - turns out, the only reason he couldn't get subsidized housing was because he had an unresolved moving violation on his record. Fortunately, he knows a good lawyer.

Peter was able to clear up that traffic ticket, which is why tonight Rob is no longer on the streets. He's housed and working as a church custodian.

[Fannierock]

I loved this story. I always enjoy your pieces, but this one really touched me.

[pelund]

Dear Mr. Hartman, I was intrigued by your story of the Homeless Book Club in Boston. I live in the Detroit area and am interested in starting a similar group. In your story you indicated that there are other cities that also have started their own book clubs. Where can I get more information and is it possible to contact Peter for his guidance?

Thank you,
Paula

[jmauller]

I have also heard about homeless soccer teams - in Charlottesville, VA, a group of UVA students have been working with the local homeless population on forming soccer teams. I thought this was a rare event, but have learned that this team competes with homeless soccer teams in other towns! I enjoy anything that brings the community together and applaud any efforts that achieve those ends. Perhaps a book club can come here too - might be a good option when the weather changes a bit. and speaking of books - i'm looking for a good one... suggestions welcome.

[susiemoosie]

That was a wonderful story about Rob and Peter and inspires me to do something where I live.  I'm from a suburb of Boston but now live in Florida and have recently decided to endeavor to read more than just when I go on vacation.  The power of books is amazing and I'd like to share that.  Is there a website  that could give me some guidance for starting someting like this where I live now? 

[laurel1981]

Love this story. The unstoppable power of individual action.

No bureaucy. No goverment program.

Is anyone doing this in the Phila Area?

Thank you,
Joe A.

[hentyfe]

You can't imagine my delight at seeing this story. I walk most days from North Station and through the Common to my job. For the past couple of years I have enjoyed seeing Rob on his usual park bench, and returning his smile and cheerful hello as I walk by. This spring when I began walking again, I missed Rob--and hoped his path had taken a good turn. Bravo to Peter and his vision for the book club. If there is a way to donate books to the group, I would like to know--and will spread the word.

[YA-Librarian]

Hi Steve!
I saw the story this morning and was moved to tears. Great story! I cheered when Rob said he wanted the book group to be about the discussion and not about a free food handout. It's all about the story! This is a message I try to communicate by example on a daily basis as a middle school librarian. It is pure joy to have a conversation with a young person about a book. I'm 51 years old and can have a fun and exciting conversation with 14 and 15 year olds. Imagine that! Thank you for airing the story again just as I'm about to begin another school year. I've been inspired!.

[lindafea]

Dear Mr. Hartman, I have a small, eclectic collection of books looking for a new home, as I have moved into a small apt. If the Book Club is interested, I would be willing to pay for the shipment.... How can I get in touch with them.... I'm not very computer literate.... lindafea

[jjmargolis]

I was especially gratified to see this story, because I know Rob and used to chat with him on the Common. When I stopped seeing him out there several months ago, I knew that either something good--like a job--or something bad had happened. I am very happy to learn that he is doing well. And the book club is something else! Great work and a great story.

[wjpahpbudwan]

With the 40th anniversary of Woodstock coming up next week, I think it would be novel to also feature the "Byron Pop Festival" on July 3,4,5,1970 which was comparable in size to Woodstock. It can be found by searching "Byron Pop Festival" or "Atlanta Pop Festival(second annual)".
Buddy Phillips
Columbus,GA