A must read book by Fredrik Backman

I understand it could be too late to write a review about this 2012 Swedish novel, with English translation in 2013.  The novel reached the New York Times Best Seller list 18 months after its publication and stayed on the list for 42 weeks. Probably most of us have already seen its 2023 film adaptation “The man called Otto.”

But the novel will capture your heart and leave you smiling and any book review site without its review is definitely incomplete. This bestselling novel tells the story of Ove, a grumpy and eccentric old man who has given up on life after the loss of his beloved wife, Sonja.

Through a series of flashbacks and present day encounters, Backman masterfully weaves together Ove’s story, revealing a complex and deeply human character. Despite his rough exterior, Ove is a romantic at heart, and his love for Sonja is the thread that runs throughout the novel.

The supporting cast of characters is equally well-crafted, from the chatty and cheerful pregnant woman, Parvaneh, to the bumbling but lovable IT consultant, Patrick. Each character brings their own unique perspective and humor to the story, adding depth and warmth to the narrative.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its ability to balance humor and pain. Backman’s writing is both witty and poignant, often tackling difficult subjects like grief, loneliness, and mortality with sensitivity and humor.

The themes of community, friendship, and the importance of human connection are woven throughout the novel, adding a richness and depth to the story. Backman shows us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and always the possibility for redemption and connection.

Overall, “A Man Called Ove” is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that will resonate with readers of all ages. It’s a story about the power of love, the importance of community, and the resilience of the human spirit. If you’re looking for a novel that will make you laugh, cry, and feel hopeful, then “A Man Called Ove” is the perfect choice.

There are few things which I believe were lost in translation or cultural differences, but still the book is wonderful and definitely better than the movie.

 Personal Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Genre : Humorous Fiction

Definitely a must read.