The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry is a bestselling novel about a bookstore owner and his family.  When I read a bestseller, I can't help but have high expectations, however, I was disappointed with this story.  Mr. Fikry is a widowed bookseller who is at a low point in his life until a child is literally dropped at his doorstep and gives him something to live for.  A desperate single mother leaves two-year-old Maya in Fikry's bookshop with a note asking him to care for her.  Fikry is reluctant at first but decides to keep Maya rather than give her up to foster care.  Shortly thereafter, Mr. Fikry falls in love and marries a woman who shares his passion for books, however, his contentment doesn't last for long.  The discovery of Maya's father leads to another family tragedy and then Fikry is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. There are some touching moments and several nods to book lovers, however, it wasn't enough to make me enjoy this book.  For a more uplifting story about a bookstore owner, try The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend.

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