Book Review: The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin

As the title suggests, The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry is a book deeply rooted in books themselves.

The novel revolves around A.J. Fikry, the owner of a small bookstore on Alice Island. His life unfolds through constant references to various books and authors—this interweaving of literature with his personal journey forms the heart of the story. Gabrielle Zevin does a commendable job of connecting these literary references to the different phases of A.J. Fikry’s life, making the narrative rich and meaningful.

A.J. Fikry is portrayed as a lonely, reclusive bookstore owner who lost his wife at a young age. Since then, he has withdrawn from the world, coming across as rude and unsociable—someone who avoids human interaction. Amelia Loman, a representative from a publishing house, approaches him to discuss the books he would like to stock in his store. Initially unwilling, Fikry reluctantly agrees to meet her. Their first meeting, however, does not go well. Shortly after, his most precious possession—the rare book Tamerlane—is stolen.

The turning point in Fikry’s life arrives when an anonymous person leaves a two-year-old baby girl, Maya, in his bookstore, hoping she will grow up surrounded by books. With no way to trace the child’s mother, Fikry adopts her and names her Maya Fikry. From this moment on, his life begins to change. Becoming a father reshapes him, and he comes to believe that some stories unfold at exactly the right time in our lives—Maya is that story for him. The bond between A.J. and Maya is heartfelt and tender. Despite being an adoptive relationship, their connection is deeply genuine and built purely on love.

Fikry also shares a close friendship with Officer Lambiase, who becomes Maya’s godfather. Over the years, Maya develops a warm friendship with Amelia as well, whom she meets every summer. Another significant chapter in Fikry’s life unfolds when he realizes that he has fallen in love with Amelia. He eventually proposes to her, and they get married, bringing a sense of happiness and fulfillment into his life.

However, the story takes a poignant turn when it is revealed that Tamerlane was indeed stolen, and soon after, Fikry is diagnosed with a tumor. This illness ultimately leads to his death.

The characters in the novel are well developed, with A.J. Fikry undergoing the most significant transformation—a journey that is both moving and believable. The mystery element is well placed and effectively handled.

Overall, Gabrielle Zevin has done a remarkable job of crafting a story that celebrates books, love, loss, and second chances.

Buy Link:https://amzn.in/d/31fHZd8