Gabrielle Zevin
2014
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry is a sweet little novel that doesn't make you work too hard. There are a few twists and turns in the plot, much like life. But all in all it's like a nice cup of tea--a perfect break in a hectic day.
The story follows Mr. Fikry, who owns an independent bookstore somewhere off the coast. He is cranky and justly so. His wife died in a car accident, and his life savings were stolen. The Storied Life focuses in A.J.'s return to the living. He is helped by friends, family and a bit of perseverance.
Each chapter of the book begins with Fikry's review of classic short stories, which is his preferred genre. They also function as advice to his daughter.
Gabrielle Zevin's novel likely won't satisfy the book club. Nothing terribly controversial here. And, most readers won't find it surprising that Zevin has successfully penned a couple of young adult novels. But the story would make a nice gift for a friend, young or old, who loves books.
Gabrielle Zevin is a novelist and screenwriter, who proudly started her career as a music critic for the Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel. She is probably best known for the young adult novel Elsewhere, which has been translated into 20 languages and was nominated for a Quill award.
