“In this sweet, uplifting homage to bookstores, Zevin perfectly captures the joy of connecting people and books . . . Filled with interesting characters, a deep knowledge of bookselling, wonderful critiques of classic titles, and very funny depictions of book clubs and author events, this will prove irresistible to book lovers everywhere.”
NO MAJOR SPOILERS
A charming story about a near to middle-aged widower A.J. Fikry who is the proprietor of Island Books located on, what else but an island called Alice. When the reader is first introduced to A.J., a sales representative, Amelia (Amy) is making a visit to present a selection of new book titles that her publisher is recommending, he’s not only disinterested but also rude. Not long after a very valuable books goes missing and also a child appears, no it’s not magic but a mystery that needs solving. One is solved pretty quickly, the other perhaps…
There are most likely many cliches or proverbs that fit this story, I especially think “when a door closes, another one opens” comes to mind foremost. The author has a cast of very creative characters, some more likable than others but all fit rather nicely in the telling of the tale. I really enjoyed this read and sometimes even though it might not just have that fairy tale “happily ever after” ending it’s well written and highly enjoyable. If you happened to have read books like “A Man Called Ove” and enjoyed it, you just might embrace and love this book. I know I did. This was my first novel but this author and am looking forward to many more.
Reviewed by:
Diana Long
Added 11th April 2020
