This is a good, solid read with a well-drawn, unconventional main character at the center. A.J Fikry is an old-school, literature-loving book store owner who praises the eloquence of a well-written short story (his favorite form of writing). His character was authentic, with such a specific world view that delighted me. I know I'm not supposed to critique a book by comparing it to the story I wish had been written, but sorry. The way this started, showing A.J's quirkiness in a humorous way, had me. There was so much potential for a comedy of errors; but instead there was death and sadness as the frame for this story, which didn't do anything to help the story. (view spoiler)[There were four deaths in all if you count A.J's first wife who has recently died as the story opens. I also had a problem with A.J's brother-in-law conveniently being killed off, with his wife not getting any blame (it was her fault) because apparently he was such a bastard for cheating on his wife. It made me wonder if the author Gabrielle Zevin had issues... (hide spoiler)]