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

emotional mysterious reflective relaxing sad medium-paced

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

2.75

Something about this book just didn’t click for me. It was a relatively quick read but I just felt like it moved too quick to really see the character development. You’re just told how they’ve changed instead of seeing how and why. Some of the humor in it was in poor taste in my opinion but that’s more personal preference. I read this because someone recommended it for those who loved The House in the Cerulean Sea and I would have to disagree. The heart of The House in the Cerulean Sea comes from how much time you get to spend with those characters and see them fleshed out on page and watch their growth unfold. I was hoping that Fikry’s character would eventually become more lovable over time but he just never really grew on me. It was an alright story, I enjoy the concept of how it’s told. Just wasn’t quite my cup of tea.