One Book, One Elmhurst

The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin is a heartwarming and thoughtful novel that invites readers to immerse themselves in the charming, book-filled world of A.J., a bookstore owner whose life takes an unexpected turn. Set on a small island, the story is filled with memorable characters, quiet humor, and a deep love of literature. As A.J.’s world expands in surprising and meaningful ways, you will find yourself drawn into a tale that celebrates the power of community, connection, and second chances. It’s the perfect choice for a community-wide reading event that will inspire conversation, reflection, and a shared love of storytelling.

As you follow A.J.’s journey, you’ll have the chance to step into his world by visiting a re-created version of his bookstore at the Library, participate in a self-guided bookstore crawl featuring Chicago-area independent bookstores, and come together to celebrate the power of stories and community at our culmination party at Wilder Mansion. Don’t miss these unforgettable experiences that bring this book to life!

One Book, One Elmhurst is made possible by the Friends of the Elmhurst Public Library. Join at elmlib.org/friends.

Visit A.J.’s Bookstore at EPL!

Immerse yourself in A.J.’s world — at the Library! Visit Adult Services and the Kids’ Library throughout autumn to step inside re-creations of A.J.’s bookstore. EPL staff have curated a collection of titles mentioned in the book for you to check out!

Wrap It Up! One Book, One Elmhurst Culmination Party

Wednesday, Nov. 19 • 6-8:30 p.m. • Wilder Mansion • Adults

Join us for a celebration of books and the stories that connect us in honor of our One Book pick, The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry. Enjoy refreshments, play games, make crafts, hear stories, and share your favorite books and literary memories. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite literary character to be entered in a costume contest! Registration required.

How Do I Participate?

Discuss the Book at a Library-sponsored book discussion.
Host your own lively book discussion with a Book Discussion Kit supplied by the Library. Starting September 2, pick up your kit at the Checkout Desk while supplies last.
Embark on a self-guided bookstore crawl. Pick up your map at the Library starting September 2!
Participate in a community-wide scavenger hunt in November.
Attend an event related to the book.
For Kids: Stop by the Kids’ Library to participate in an assortment of activities to celebrate the stories we love, inspired by the book.
Look for copies of the book staff have distributed in Little Free Libraries around town.
Consider this list of discussion questions as you’re reading.
Pick up a “Chief’s Choice” list of book recommendations at the Library from Elmhurst’s very own Chief McLean.
Celebrate community connections at the culmination party at Wilder Mansion on Nov. 19!