Reviews with content warning for Cancer - The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry

What the fuck is wrong with Gabrielle Zevin. This book was absolutely beautiful, however I don't know if I would ever have picked it up knowing the ending. Despite the horrifically sad events in this book, it is incredible. I had a feeling things were going too well for it to end happy, but I didn't think it would be like this. The sick irony of it all is that my book club picked this book for our "happy ending" prompt. Although I can see how this is, in fact, a happy ending I was just so attached to A.J. to feel happy. Overall I am so happy to have found this book, it quickly made its way in to my top books of all time (thus far). I believe later (much later) after I have nursed my wounds I will return to this book again and again.

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sabrinaapreads's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

This book is giving The House of Cerulean Sea vibes in the best way! Curmudgeon, found family and a little darkness. I wholeheartedly consumed The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry and loved the structure, the story, the lovable/fallible main character, supporting roles, the twist, all of IT.
Important to note: this book was written first.
🙌🏼 Praise Zevin 🙌🏼.

Favorite Character:
This one was tough - so many amazingly complex characters to LOVE.
For now, I'll say it's Amelia. Her commitment to being her true/authentic self is remarkable. She vibrantly jumps from the page. I too, want some daisy flip flops (among other things). She is joie de vivre!! 🌼

Favorite Moment:
Again, so difficult - I will say this without spoiling anything - the TWIST reveal. I didn't see it coming in any way, shape or form, although there was something always nagging me and in retrospect, there were definitely elements of foreshadowing. Gosh, this book is SO GOOD. 👀

Final Thoughts:
Zevin writes with a nostalgic tone and at an easy to read pace.
This novel, at it's heart, has a message of 💗LOVE 💗and for that, I'm always down to read, praise and rejoice in every word!! AMEN!! 🙏🏼

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libcolleen's review against another edition

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emotional medium-paced

4.0

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shaleen64's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted sad medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

An easy and beautiful read about the love of books, the love of people and what really matters in life. It will make you laugh, cry and hope.

There are also some unexpected twists/plot lines. A brilliant choice in any instance but perfect if you’re in a reading slump.

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