Reading On The Subway

When I'm reading a book on the subway here in New York and see three or four other riders doing the same thing either with a physical book or an e-book device, it makes me feel good. It makes me feel like I'm sitting in a reading room on wheels and confirms that reading hasn't completely died out.

The Subway Is Not For Joyriders

The Voice of the People
New York Daily News
220 East 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017
May 17, 1993

Dear Editor:

I wonder what those who see Keron Thomas as a hero would have said if the A train the 16-year-old train buff commandeered had derailed, killing or injuring a friend or relative who might have been aboard.

To let Thomas off the hook would send a message to like-minded youth that it's all right to joyride a subway train packed with passengers. Thomas should be made to complete several hours of community service as a way to underscore to him the seriousness of his acts.

And those at the Transit Authority should hang their heads in shame for allowing lax security to exist in the subway system. What if this had been a real-life Taking of Pelham One Two Three? Especially weeks after the World Trade Center bombing.

Sincerely yours,
Charles Michael Smith

The above letter was sent but not published.