Despite his age, Carl Kollhoff delivers the books that his favorite customers have ordered while he strolls through the picturesque streets of his city. Daring to compare them to characters from the great classics, he has nicknames for each one, including Mr. Darcy and Dr. Faust. A twist of fate turns his life upside down and Carl will need the power of literature and the help of a smart, sassy nine-year-old girl to make him happy again.