Don't Pick Up

Louisa Bodek is a recovering kleptomaniac. Her guarded exterior protects a deeply romantic flower longing for the sun. On a day when she has reached her absolute bottom, she seeks refuge in a Children's Bookstore. Struggling with her urge to "lift," she is interrupted by Chris Scarpelli, the adorable middle-aged dork of a store manager. Wry and compassionate, Chris has chosen to live out his life reading "Runaway Bunny" to 4-year-olds. Through an improbable set of connections, they each discover in each other a kindred spirit. Each risks the possibility that they may have found a soulmate, until Louisa realizes true love cannot flourish with a stolen book in your purse. (Cinequest Festival)