Bernard is struggling to cope with getting down to menial but essential tasks for his book shop, such as the accounts when a chance meeting with a customer, Manny, helps him out. Meanwhile, the owner of the shop next door, enlists the help of Bernard and his customers to find out exactly what an object from her shop is and in doing so misses an important appointment.—Robyn Cowen
Bernard Black runs a small bookstore that somehow survives despite Bernard's non-existent customer service skills and ethos. He is particularly frazzled right now as it is tax time and he is doing his taxes himself - his accountant is on the run from the police. Fran runs the nearby knick-knacks store and can't fathom out what the gadget she is selling does. Manny works in an office and hates his job. The Little Book of Calm is the only thing that can get him through the day.—grantss