The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry

The film follows A.J. Fikry, a reclusive and grieving bookstore owner on Alice Island, whose life takes a dramatic turn after a series of events. Following the theft of his rare copy of Tamerlane, A.J. discovers a 2-year-old girl, Maya, abandoned in his store. He eventually adopts her with the support of friends like Officer Lambiase and Ismay, his sister-in-law.

A.J.'s relationship with Amelia Loman, a sales representative, evolves from initial antagonism to friendship and romance. Their bond deepens after Amelia ends her engagement, leading to marriage. Tragedy strikes when Ismay's husband, Daniel, dies in a car crash. Seven years later, Maya grows into a talented writer, supported by A.J. and Amelia.

A.J. is diagnosed with cancer, prompting revelations about Maya's origins and the theft of Tamerlane. As his health declines, A.J. shares poignant moments with his loved ones before dying. The story concludes with Maya and Amelia leaving Alice Island, while Lambiase and Ismay decide to preserve the bookstore in A.J.'s memory.

• Kunal Nayyar as A.J. Fikry
• Lucy Hale as Amelia “Amy” Loman
• Christina Hendricks as Ismay Evans
• David Arquette as Officer Nick Lambiase
• Scott Foley as Daniel Parrish
• Jordyn McIntosh as Maya (5yr old)

In June 2021, it was announced that Nayyar, Hendricks and Hale were cast in the film.^[3] In December 2021, it was announced that Arquette and Foley were cast in the film.^[4]

Filming took place on Cape Cod from November to December 2021.^[5][6]

In May 2022, it was announced that the North American distribution rights to the film were acquired by Vertical Entertainment.^[7] The film was released on October 7, 2022.^[8][9]