All the Good Things

Beth is in prison for a bad thing she did, but her counselor Erika encourages her to make a list of all the good things in her life. Beth starts to write down her story, from sharing silences with Foster Dad No. 1 to flirting in the Odeon on Orange Wednesdays. At the end of her story, she must confront the truth hiding behind her crime and decide if she deserves a chance to be good.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2018
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Beth, a 21-year-old woman, finds herself incarcerated, serving a prison sentence for a heinous act she committed. The gravity of her actions leaves her convinced that she doesn't deserve any form of happiness or redemption. However, her counselor, Erika, remains unwavering in her support. Erika challenges Beth to create a list of all the positive aspects of her life. Beth reluctantly begins to write down her story, reminiscing about moments of connection and joy. From sharing silences with her foster father, No. 1, to engaging in playful flirting at the Odeon on Orange Wednesdays, to the tender first time she sniffed her baby's head, her memories unfold.

As Beth's story comes to a close, she is faced with the undeniable truth behind her crime. But Erika encourages her to confront it head-on, questioning whether even the most despicable person deserves a chance to be good. Beth grapples with these profound questions, searching for answers within herself.

Through her journey, Beth discovers the power of forgiveness, empathy, and second chances. She realizes that her actions do not define her and that there is always the potential for growth and transformation. The book is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the transformative power of compassion.

In conclusion, "What If You Did a Very Bad Thing?" is a heartfelt, heartbreaking, and genuinely joyous exploration of the human condition. Francis Spufford's writing captures the depth of emotions and the complexities of morality, leaving readers with a renewed sense of hope and understanding. This powerful story reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility of redemption and the ability to make a positive impact on the world around us.

Weight: 170g
Dimension: 130 x 196 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241978115