The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry is a breezy, big-hearted treat, especially if you've ever wondered about the inner workings of America's national treasures--neighborhood bookstores.

Sometimes, things are just exercises.

The very best parts of me go into my writing, it is the best version of myself, and I don't think it's hubristic to believe that that's worth something, worth someone else's time. It's the most I have to offer the world.

I smoked for many years like a total idiot.

In its current incarnation in my life touring is a lot of airports and hotels and car services and only OK food.

My last book was speculative. I just don't quite know what I am doing. But I'll get there. I have a list of things I would love to write.

I wish I could write while I'm on the road but it never works for me. I need to be sitting still.