A review by jessiekind_
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

emotional funny hopeful sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Fredrik Backman has such a wonderful ability to write characters you fall head over heels for. They feel so real and I always find myself thinking about them long after having read the book. A Man Called Ove is no exception.

I had seen this book everywhere and wasn't entirely sure what to expect. This is a wonderful character study, examining the way community and those close to us, in both proximity and spiritually, can impact our lives in such profound ways. I absolutely adored the relationships that develop in the story and the way Backman tells Ove's story through different periods of time and his interactions with his neighbours. 

I would prepare yourself for an emotional read before going into this, and maybe check some content warnings as it was a hard read at points. The mix of laugh out loud moments, recognition of characters from my own life, emotional turmoil and the need to know what decisions Ove makes, made this such a captivating read. I'm so glad I finally read this wonderful book.
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