Chapter 1:
* Helen Hanff, a struggling writer in New York City, sends a letter to Marks & Co., a used bookstore in London, inquiring about a rare edition of "Pride and Prejudice."
* The bookstore responds with a witty and knowledgeable reply from Frank Doel, the chief buyer.
Example:
> "Dear Mr or Miss Doel,
> I am writing to you from my one-room apartment on the infamous West 87th Street in New York City. I am poor, plain and of no interest to the world in the way they measure such things. But, I am a good and faithful customer."
Chapter 2:
* Helen and Frank begin a frequent correspondence, exchanging letters about books, literature, and their personal lives.
* Helen's letters are full of humor, sarcasm, and an unfulfilled longing for England.
Example:
> "If God had ever meant me to have a husband, he would have given me one. So, you can relax. He meant me for something else, perhaps for writing. I've been trying my hand at it and selling little pieces here and there, to magazines and newspapers."
Chapter 3:
* Helen and Frank's friendship deepens, and they begin to share their frustrations and joys.
* Helen sends books to the bookstore, and Frank reciprocates with gifts like tea and wool.
Example:
> "I hope you don't think I'm pushing my own stuff onto you. I just thought you might like to see what I've been up to. It's not much, but it's mine."
Chapter 4:
* Helen expresses her desire to visit London, and Frank invites her to stay with him and his wife.
* However, Helen's plans are thwarted by a lack of funds.
Example:
> "Oh, Doel. What should I do? It would be the most glorious of experiences, to go to London, to meet you and your wife, and to see all the things I've only read about. But alas, I am no jet-setter, nor have I won the Irish Sweepstakes."
Chapter 5:
* Helen's and Frank's correspondence continues, but they both begin to sense a growing distance.
* Frank's replies become less frequent, and his tone becomes more reserved.
Example:
> "Dear Miss Hanff,
> I must apologize for my tardy response. I have been somewhat under the weather lately. My health has not been the best, and I have found it difficult to concentrate."
Chapter 6:
* Helen eventually learns that Frank Doel has died.
* She is devastated by the news and writes a heartfelt eulogy for him.
Example:
> "He was a good man, Frank Doel. A kind and gentle soul. He loved books and he loved people. I will cherish our friendship forever."
Epilogue:
* Helen eventually visits London and visits Marks & Co.
* She finds a plaque in Frank's memory and leaves a small gift in his honor.
Example:
> "I left a copy of 'Pride and Prejudice' on the shelf, thinking that Frank would have liked that. I hope he knows I'm here, that I came to visit him. I like to think he's smiling down on me, sipping his tea and watching over Marks & Co. and all the bookworms who come here."
